(December 1, 2008)--Despite the official recession, national numbers show stores were busier this weekend than they were last year and local retailers mirror the trend.

At Bloom and Bee Swanky in Waco, it was a busy weekend, as holiday shopping got off to a roaring start.

"Black Friday was a record breaking day for us," said Amy Bradshaw, owner of Bloom and Bee Swanky boutique on 5th street.

Bradshaw said though the weekend proved great for business, over the past months, the store has not felt affected by the economy.

"As a retail business owner, we're growing...each month is better than the previous," Bradshaw said.

Unlike national merchants, who have had a difficult sales year, Bradshaw said the shop gets new customers in daily.

"Business is better now than ever. People are coming out and they're spending," Bradshaw said.

Other retailers around Waco tell a similar story.

"Our customers are still coming in, still loyal, and we are still huge busy," said Pam Cooper of Lane's on Austin Avenue.

Waco could have an advantage when it comes to why business remains good: a personal touch to customer service.

"We always have the coffee pot on, so everyone's welcome to a pot of coffee. We love snacks, so there are always little cookies or goodies, but that's number one with Lane's, customer service," Cooper said.

Lane's is a high-end bridal registry and gift store and has been in Waco for 67 years.

Cooper said the store has been serving some of the same families for 3 generations, "we are so blessed by our loyal customers."

Local owners said they hope their loyal customers will remain loyal, even if the recession takes a turn for the worse.

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