It’s official: life has completely changed for Scott Hoying and his husband, Mark Hoying. Just weeks after welcoming their first child, the couple has shared an intimate collection of family photos featuring their newborn daughter, Birdie James, and the images are melting hearts across the internet. The couple welcomed Birdie via surrogate on June 3 and describe her as their “perfect angel.”
The exclusive photo spread captures the pair fully embracing their new roles as first-time dads. In one image, Scott lovingly sings to Birdie. In another, the couple cuddles their daughter while soaking in the early days of parenthood. Several photos also show Birdie meeting the family’s dogs, Miles and Mozart, officially introducing the newest member of the household to her furry siblings.
For Scott and Mark, becoming parents has been years in the making.
Scott previously revealed that the journey to having a child took four to five years and involved extensive planning, patience, and support from loved ones. One of the most meaningful parts of that journey came from Scott’s sister Lauren, who served as the couple’s egg donor. Scott has called her generosity one of the greatest gifts he has ever received.
The baby’s name also carries special meaning.
“Birdie” was inspired by Bye Bye Birdie, the musical connected to the first song Scott remembers learning as a child, while “James” comes from Mark’s middle name. The couple wanted a name that felt musical without being overly obvious and one that would grow with their daughter throughout her life.
In a heartfelt message to Birdie, Scott and Mark wrote that they had dreamed of meeting her their entire lives. They described Mark as the parent who will be her “safe place” and Scott as the “silly one,” promising a future filled with love, laughter, music, and adventure.
For Scott, the arrival of Birdie represents something even bigger.
Growing up, he often wondered whether marriage and parenthood would ever be possible for him as a gay man. Now, he hopes his family’s story can serve as an example for other LGBTQ+ families and young people who may be searching for proof that their dreams are possible too.
Today, the couple is focused on enjoying the little moments: lullabies at the piano, family cuddles on the couch, and watching Birdie discover the world one day at a time. And judging by the smiles in these new photos, they’re loving every second of it.
