Black Friday is called one of the biggest shopping days of the year and that was true this Friday at the Augusta Mall.

Even with a tough economy, shoppers were full speed ahead.

Take Veronica Bowles who says nothing can stop her from her family tradition.

"We are on a budget because of the economy and the sales help with the budget and help us stretch our dollars," said Bowles.

And Bowles says the free stuff is an added bonus.

"For $60 we got all the scents that we like, two free bags, a make-up kit and a black bag. So, we've gotten some awesome deals," said Bowles.

Retailers at the Augusta Mall aren't feeling the effects of the economy either. Nine West said business is booming.

"We opened with the mall at 6 o'clock this morning and we had people standing outside waiting for us," said manager Erin Kuattlebaun.

It's not just retail stores that are benefiting from Black Friday, restaurants are also raking in the cash.

"It seems like we've been more busy this morning than last year," said Kenneth Hanna, owner of the Chick-fil-A in the Augusta Mall.

Hanna said his crew has been working hard since 2:30 a.m. Friday.

"I've already made 500 chicken biscuits and sold everyone of them," said Hanna.

A new restaurant at the Augusta Mall is also preparing for a busy day.

"We're expecting the biggest day so far. We opened in February and other than Mother's Day this will probably be our biggest day since we've been open," said Jeoff Atherton, operating partner of P.F.Changs.

Though some people would say with today's economy it's a time to pinch pennies, many shoppers said today was a day to spend and save big on all the deals.