Dede Raad, a prominent fashion and lifestyle influencer, has welcomed her fourth child, a daughter named Birdie Blaise Raad, with her husband, Ted Raad. The couple, who already share son Jet and daughters Vivi and Rosie, announced the arrival of their newest family member in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.
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The baby girl was born on the morning of Wednesday, February 25, at 2:36 a.m. Birdie weighed 7 lbs. 13 oz. and measured 20 inches in length. Dede described the experience of her daughter’s arrival as “so still and peaceful,” noting the tranquility that enveloped the occasion. “Our fourth baby came fast in the quiet middle of the night. It felt so still and peaceful – the sweetest way to meet her,” she recalled, adding that she had a two-hour, all-natural labour.
Reflecting on her swift delivery, Dede explained how her extensive preparation enabled her to embrace each stage of labour. She felt well-equipped and assured as she welcomed Birdie, stating, “There is something about welcoming your fourth baby that comes with more trust in your body.” The moment she heard Birdie cry was etched in her memory, making the event feel surreal and unforgettable.
With gratitude, Dede expressed, “We are so thankful she is ours and are soaking up every second with our Birdie girl as a family of six. Truly, how do you stop having babies? This entire process is magical. God is so good.” Her husband, Ted, played a crucial role during the birth, providing steadfast support and encouragement throughout. “He kept reminding me when to breathe, talked me through every wave, and encouraged me the whole way,” she shared, emphasising his calming presence during the intense moments of labour.
Dede fondly recounted how Ted even caught their newborn, a stark contrast to their first birth experience where she had instructed him not to look. As they navigate this new chapter, the couple reflects on their family dynamic, feeling the profound joy of becoming parents once again.
The choice of name for their newborn was intentional and significant. Dede revealed that she had always envisioned naming their fourth child Birdie, even before knowing the baby’s sex. After some persuasion, Ted agreed, leading to a name that felt just right alongside their other children’s names. “Birdie means joy, peace, and freedom in Christ to me,” Dede explained. The middle name, Blaise, holds personal meaning for them, recalling their memorable six-week family trip to Europe shortly before learning they were expecting.
Moreover, Birdie’s name carries special significance as a tribute to Dede’s late father, who passed away just a month prior to her wedding in 2012. With Birdie’s initials matching those of her grandfather, Dede sees it as a touching homage, stating, “Having her be Birdie Blaise and share those same initials feels like such a special little nod to him.”
Dede shared her deep sense of gratitude as she embarks on this new journey of motherhood, now as a mother of four. “The newborn days are just sacred. As a fourth-time mum, I feel way more confident in our decisions and am cherishing how fast this time goes,” she reflected. Her heart continues to expand with each child she welcomes, revealing the overwhelming beauty of motherhood.
The couple’s older children were excited to meet their new sister, with Dede describing their reactions as heartwarming. They introduced their new sibling to the family just 13 hours after Birdie’s birth. “Rosie entered big sister mode immediately, holding Birdie’s tiny fingers. Our big-hearted boy Jet’s eyes lit up seeing Birdie for the first time,” Dede shared. Meanwhile, the youngest, Vivi, was surprised yet eager to hold her new sister, showcasing a mixture of innocence and curiosity.
As Dede savours every precious moment with her growing family, she joyfully remarked that she still cannot believe all of her children are now a part of her life. The arrival of Birdie has not only expanded their family but has also deepened the love and bonds they share.