Hello @JodieC1 ,
I'd advise taking a look at these articles for handling opt-ins, including how to handle existing contacts:
Enabling Confirm-Opt-In for new signups
Reconfirming-Opt-In for existing contacts
Customizing the COI and Update Profile emails
See also:
Contacts in Awaiting Confirmation status
Implied permission collection methods for quality emails
Constant Contact email permission policies
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