Atlanta-based couple Terrell and Jarius Joseph have become prominent figures in the realm of modern fatherhood and some of our faves here at Black Love because of how vulnerably and candidly they share their family life as Black, gay dads on social media and through their book, Love Out Loud. Their journey, marked by resilience, love, and a commitment to representation, offers a compelling narrative that challenges traditional notions of parenting and family structures.

Father Noir: Parenting Out Loud with Terrell & Jarius Joseph

In today’s spotlight on Terrell and Jarius, you’ll learn about:

• The Couple’s Journey Through Love, Loss & Surrogacy
• How Terrell & Jarius Parent Out Loud
• Building Legacy & Generational Wealth
• Uplifting Black Fatherhood in Diverse Family Structures

Starting with a Haunted House & Real Connection

The couple’s story began in 2011 during their freshman year of college in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where a chance meeting at a haunted house sparked a connection that quickly deepened. By 2014, they were engaged, and in January 2017, they solidified their bond through marriage. But that journey was not without challenges.

Love, Loss & the Journey to Fatherhood Through Surrogacy

Determined to build a family, Terrell and Jarius faced both joy and heartbreak. In 2015, they were thrilled to learn they were expecting their first child via surrogacy. Tragically, the pregnancy ended in miscarriage at 20 weeks, a loss that tested their strength and unity. 

Undeterred, they continued their pursuit of parenthood, and in 2017, they welcomed “twins” Ashton and Aria, born five weeks apart through two different surrogates . Their family expanded further in March 2023 with the birth of their third child, Aspen Noelle, who arrived ten weeks premature and spent 44 days in the NICU before coming home.

Going Viral with Vulnerability: Terrell & Jarius Parent Out Loud

Recognizing a lack of representation for families like theirs, Terrell and Jarius turned to social media and Youtube to share their experiences. Their candid posts about parenting, from styling their daughter’s hair to navigating the challenges of fatherhood, have resonated with millions, fostering a sense of community and visibility for LGBTQ+ families . Their content not only entertains but also educates, challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity.

In June 2024, the couple released their book, Love Out Loud: Building A Relationship and Family From Scratch, offering readers an intimate look into their lives. The book serves as both a memoir and a guide, detailing their experiences with love, loss, and the pursuit of family. It provides insights into sustaining a relationship, embracing nontraditional parenting, and building a supportive community 

Building Legacy & Generational Wealth

Beyond their online presence, Terrell and Jarius are entrepreneurs, owning a franchise of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Georgia and venturing into real estate with aspirations of establishing their own brokerage. Their endeavors are driven by a desire to create generational wealth and provide a stable future for their children, reflecting their commitment to long-term success and family well-being.

Terrell & Jarius Uplift Black Fatherhood in Diverse Family Structures

Terrell and Jarius’s story is more than a personal journey; it’s a beacon for others navigating similar paths. They advocate for the normalization of diverse family structures and encourage others to embrace their identities unapologetically. Their message is clear: love, in all its forms, is valid and powerful.

As they continue to share their lives with authenticity and grace, Terrell and Jarius Joseph exemplify the evolving landscape of fatherhood, where love, resilience, and representation pave the way for future generations and it’s an honor to include them in 5th installment of Black Love’s Father Noir.

Hear more from Jarius who appeared at the 2023 Black Love Summit in Atlanta, Georgia on Black Love’s Watch page.