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Melody Thornton, Founder of CMB

Melody Thornton, Founder of CMB

Intro by Jen Street, Founder of Forged Flare

I was first introduced to CMB (Custom Made Better) back in the early days of Forged Flare, when we were just starting out. At the time, I was navigating the laser world, seeking materials and suppliers for our unique product line – Mother's Angels ornaments. These angels require specific acrylic sizes for the intricate "puzzle design" at their center, and I was struggling to find the right fit.

That's when I heard about the exceptional quality of CMB's products, and I decided to give them a try. When those materials arrived, I was absolutely thrilled with the results.

From that initial order, I've had the pleasure of getting to know Melody on a personal level, and she's become a dear friend in the business world. What warms my heart is that our product sales not only benefit our customers but also support the wonderful, family-run business that is CMB. It's a win-win for all of us!

A colorful assortment of CMB acrylics.

Meet Melody

CMB was founded as a woman-owned and (now) family-operated business. What started as a side hustle for a SAHM (stay-at-home mom) has turned into a family-run business that we're so excited about! My husband worked a corporate job for years and it took so much time away from us as a family that as soon as the opportunity for him to quit opened up, we jumped in head first! I wouldn't trade it for the world! We love what we do and the community we serve! We genuinely believe in a family-first mentality and strive to provide our employees with that opportunity as well — we offer well and above-industry-average pay ranges, paid PTO, and a flexible work schedule when needed.

CMB acrylic samples being held up to the light.

I initially started the business after a $25 Silhouette Cameo purchase to label all the things. That turned into a vinyl supply shop that I ran out of my house via porch pickup. As I dove headfirst into the craft world, my husband got me a Glowforge for my birthday in 2019 and I had the hardest time finding pretty acrylic to cut on it! A bit of research, luck, and risk and I had my first batch of acrylic to sell. I posted in a relatively small Glowforge group and sold out almost within the first day. Which led to continuing to pursue acrylic sales.

A colorful assortment of CMB acrylics.

In 2021 we dropped vinyl sales and chose to focus on an all-acrylic supply space. Business has exploded, and we couldn't be more grateful.

A colorful assortment of CMB acrylics.

One thing that keeps me going is our client base. Even on some of the hardest days of being a business owner, there's always a client-turned-friend who has made me remember that I'm not really building a business, I'm just building relationships and friendships. ❤️

Contact Info:

Website: www.custommadebetter.com
Instagram: @cmbacrylic
TikTok: @cmbacrylic
Acrylic Obsessed Facebook Group 

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About Jen Street

Jen Street is the Founder & Creative Director of Forged Flare®, a business that specializes in creating unique ornaments that are reminiscent of stained glass. Handcrafted in Texas and perfect for gifting, her Mother’s Angels® ornaments make people feel seen, appreciated, and loved. Sign up for the newsletter and save on your first handmade ornament today.

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