What is a musical art form that is classic in its nature but often overlooked for the skill and talent it takes to pull off, especially when 99.9% of the people you do it for have next to no idea it's about to happen? If you said the singing telegram, you'd be correct – but if you happen to be in the market for one, Jen Forti, owner and operator of Bellgram Telegrams of Portland, Ore. is standing by at your service!
A woman of many talents and entrepreneurial ventures including various bands, performances and even a t-shirt company, Forti's origins with Bellagrams date back to 2018 as a simple side hustle. Eventually, the business grew to the point where it is now her main line of work, perfect for a self-starter who wanted to be her own boss and still exercise her performance genes. This is why she calls Bellagrams the culmination of all her previous work, which includes stints in the acts the March Fourth Marching Band and The Tangled Threads among others.
Now, she is focused on growing Bellagrams, which seeks to "Deliver messages, lifting spirits, creating connection and bringing harmony into the world through memorable, music moments." With several others helping assist delivering tunes, the company is seeking to get into jingle writing and also offers virtual telegrams ("Zoom-A-Grams," if you will) that can be performed anytime, any place if the gig is right. The company is making all the right noise, if you will, as detailed in a recent feature in Portland Monthly, which is how they came onto Tabari's radar before coming reaching yours.
On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, March 16, 2022), Jen talks to Tabari about her vast travels as a singer, dancer, performer ... And even a living marionette puppet. The conversation then flows into what led to her launching Bellegram, the unique experience that comes from traveling on a bus with dozens of people ... As well as what you might expect if your ex is still mad at you and you want Jen to help save your relationship.
Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.