David Morgenstern and Raphael (Raphi) Rosenblatt met in 2010 in New York City. Raphi was there for a summer graduate internship, and the two bonded instantly over a shared love of family, global travel, and Mean Girls. Just a month later, Raphi returned to Boston to finish school, and they began a long-distance relationship.
Six years later, they married—on the exact one-year anniversary of marriage equality in the U.S., a detail they hadn’t planned but welcomed with open hearts. “It worked out great,” David said.
Their path to parenthood was just as intentional. The couple chose to pursue open adoption through an agency that supports expectant families in exploring all their options. “That approach felt right to us and aligned with the kind of process and relationship we hoped to be part of as we started our family,” David shared.
They became parents during the height of COVID-19, a time marked by uncertainty, isolation, and resilience. Their son, Simon, is now four years old and full of personality. “The best part of parenting is watching Simon become his own person—not a mini David or Raphi, but fully himself,” said David. “Toddlerhood is full of laughter—well, between the tears—and I try to soak up every giggle. It’s magic.”
David is candid about the challenges of parenting, especially as a queer family. “We’re thoughtful about safety and always talk through how we want to navigate situations, especially when visiting less welcoming parts of the country,” he said. “We know the real work will start when Simon’s older and playground conversations begin, but we’re lucky to live in a city that embraces queer families and to have built an incredible community around us.”
Longing for more queer representation—especially of other gay dads—led David to create Gaddies, designed to celebrate queer fatherhood. “I started Gaddies to be the first brand in the world to help gay dads feel seen and inspired to parent with pride,” shared David.
Gaddies now serves as a space where gay dads can feel seen and supported, whether they’re deep into parenting or just beginning the journey. The brand offers stylish, affirming gear that sparks conversation and connection—and reflects the joy and complexity of queer family life. “Simon knows his dad runs a company called Gaddies—gay daddies!—so every time a new shirt sample arrives, he yells, ‘NEW GAY DADDY SHIRT!’ It’s the best,” David said.
“Gaddies is doing more than just selling fun clothing—they’re helping to build visibility and pride for queer dads everywhere,” said Brian Rosenberg, founder of GWK Academy. “And I appreciate their commitment to LGBTQ+ family-building by supporting GWK Academy.”
For David, this collaboration is a full-circle moment: “What we’re building with Gaddies isn’t just about fashion or fun—it’s about belonging. It’s about making sure every gay dad knows he’s not alone.”
If you’re interested in learning about adoption, join GWK Academy for free expert-led resources, community, and coaching calls.
