Residents of Dupont remember all too well when the Dupont Forza closed its doors right before Christmas, only to be saved by the new owners, Christine and Tom Forrey. On January 3, 2016 they opened the doors under their new name and management, and have been doing well ever since.
“Amy Stark started on January 1, 2017 as the manager for the Dupont location,” said Christie Forrey, owner of the Forrey’s Forza in Lacey and Dupont. “She showed a lot of promise as an employee in our Lacey store for the past seven months and had been a customer for over four years. We needed to be more organized at the Dupont location and needed a daytime manager,” she said.
Forrey’s Forza in Dupont is more than just a neighborhood coffee shop. As a resident of Dupont, I find myself frequenting this hub for a variety of reasons. The quaint space provides a quiet atmosphere, perfect for working on your computer or snuggling up with your favorite book on the sofa on a rainy day. The large tables make it perfect for organizing a meet up with a friend or social club. Customer service is also apparent at the shop. “I have a lot of different experience, including in hotels and real estate, but my passion is customer service,” said Amy.
Forza is also a popular lunch spot. Whether it’s salami, pepperoncini and provolone on a ciabatta roll or a turkey pesto on sourdough, you’ll find something to curb your lunchtime craving. Forza has their own bakery, making everything in house, fresh and ready for patrons to enjoy. TC Pies and Bakery (“TC” for Thomas, the owner) will satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy a slice of one of the many homemade cakes, pies or cookies. Each month features a “pie of the month,” giving you a $1 off each slice of that pie. On a sunny day, there’s nothing better than ordering from the fresh gelato menu.
Forza is a hometown shop that really cares for its residents. Recently they partnered with the Lions for their annual Blanket and Winter Clothing Drive, as well as hosting a bunco event in support of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, asking for the community to come together to care for one another.
What operates as a coffee shop during the day, turns to social events during the evening. The Dupont location is modeled closely to the events that the Lacey location offers. Open mic night is open to anyone who is brave enough to take the stage. Signing, reading a poem or practicing your comedic skills are encouraged. Trivia nights are free to attend and have been a popular event on Friday evenings at 7:00 p.m. Teams are played against each other with five rounds and six questions each round. Bring a team or a friend…or just come by yourself and be paired up. There are prizes for each round played and a final grand prize of a $25 Forza gift card.
One event that started recently at the Dupont location is the popular Paint & Sip event. This event is open to all. The class is led by Jillian with The Merlot Canvas and the cost of $35 per attendee. This cost covers all painting supplies, including the 16×20 inch canvas that you will paint and take home. Each class offers a different image. Registration can be done online at The Merlot Canvas website. Forza offers a special appetizer platter and a glass of wine for the event at $12.
The owners also have strong ties to the local military community. “My dad retired from Ft. Lewis and both our grandfathers served in the military. We’re a huge military supporter,” Christine said. “We are really happy to serve the military community.” And soldiers and dependents will be happy to know that they offer a 10 percent military discount on drinks.
According to Christine, Amy has turned the Dupont store around. “I support my amazing team members to my fullest ability and work hard to maintain and positive and exciting work place, which in turn reflects on our incredible customers,” said Amy.
Come for the coffee, but stay for the…well…everything. “I am so passionate about the ‘Forrey’s Way,’” says Amy. “Customer service and welcoming attitudes are the way to go with us! Not to mention the amazing homemade goodies we sell!”
Stop by the Dupont Forza at 1520 Wilmington Drive, visit their website or follow their Facebook page for updates and specials.
Sponsored
