SMS Opt-In and Consent
How consent to receive text messages is collected, and the exact wording used in each case. Last updated August 14, 2026.
Summary
Stephen Thorn, LLC sends SMS messages only to people who have given prior express consent. Consent is collected in two ways, both documented below. No message is ever sent to a number obtained any other way, and phone numbers are never bought, rented, or shared for marketing.
Method 1: Web form opt-in
The contact form at stephenthorn.com/contact/ includes an optional phone number field paired with a consent checkbox. The checkbox is unchecked by default and is never pre-selected. The phone number is discarded unless the box is ticked.
The text next to the checkbox reads, exactly:
Text me updates about my inquiry. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency varies. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Terms · Privacy
Submitting the form with the box left unchecked sends the message without the phone number, and no SMS is sent.
Method 2: Verbal opt-in by phone
Calls to +1 (984) 336-3091 are answered by Carina, an AI phone assistant. She never sends a text unless the caller is asked first and agrees. Before offering to send anything, she asks for consent and always covers all four of the following:
- That a text message will be sent
- That message and data rates may apply
- That message frequency varies
- That the caller can reply STOP at any time to opt out
Typically worded:
Would you like me to text you a link for that? You'd get an occasional text from us related to this, message and data rates may apply, and you can reply STOP any time to opt out. Is that OK?
She proceeds only after a clear affirmative answer. Anything other than a clear yes is treated as a no, and no message is sent.
What messages are sent
Messages relate solely to the inquiry the person made. Typical examples are a reply to a question, a link that was asked for, or confirmation of a scheduled call. Message frequency varies and is low. Message and data rates may apply.
Opting out
Reply STOP to any message to opt out. Reply HELP for help. Opting out of messages does not affect any other communication or service.
Contact
Stephen Thorn, LLC. Pittsboro, North Carolina. Questions about this page or about a message you received: stephenthorn.com/contact/.
See also the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. Phone numbers collected under either method above are used only to reply to the person who gave them, and are never sold or shared for marketing.