“I think it’s a good idea to close on Thanksgiving,” Holmes said.

Holmes said Rue21 sees a limited amount of customers on Thanksgiving and said that the first two hours of opening only see around two customers. She added that being open on Thanksgiving is a waste of time and money.

Yankee Candle's Rachel Eatty said she appreciates the mall closing and many of her coworkers are also pleased with the decision.

Meridian Mall Track ‘n Trail employee Adam Sharp said he believes the closing will not affect sales because there isn't much traffic in their store during the holiday.

The closing takes some of the focus off commerce, if only for a day.

“Thanksgiving is a time for family,” Sharp said.

Stores that do not require mall access to enter may choose to open their doors on Thanksgiving Day.

Capri Hoge, the store manager of Meridian Mall’s Hot Topic, said her store should be open on Black Friday, but not on Thanksgiving.

“Thanksgiving should be saved for family time,” Hoge said. “It’s a great opportunity for workers to be with their families. That’s what Thanksgiving is about.”