Brookfield’s Broadway Avenue was just beginning to come to life at about 9:30 a.m. as Betty’s Flowers owner Betty LeClere prepared for Black Friday’s business day.

Few customers had been at the shop so far but LeClere predicted that would change.

“We’ll get a little bit busier after 1 p.m.,” LeClere said. “People will get done with that mall craze, and waiting in line for an hour, then they’ll come locally to shop.”

LeClere, president of the Brookfield Chamber of Commerce said business has been surprisingly steady in light of the country’s weak economy.

“My sales have been up a little bit so that’s promising,” LeClere said. “I just hope December goes the same.”

To help improve sales, chamber businesses created a shopping passport program. Shoppers who get their passport stamped by all participating businesses will be eligible for a plasma television drawing.

LeClere’s business specializes in seasonal flower arrangements and decorations. Although she hasn’t noticed a decrease in customers, she said they seem to be a little more cautious about their spending.

“They’re still buying but they just might not buy as elaborate, say, a centerpiece,” LeClere said.