THE WHY
"I had a part time father growing up, I vowed that my children would not experience the same absence. If he was there? He wasn't present. He was home one day and then gone for ten. Till one day he never returned. I was young and I know the hardship that it can cause, so I had to adjust quickly if I was going to keep a promise, I made to myself. Some kids grow up without a male figure saying, "I'm proud of you" and that phrase alone can change a young man or womans life in itself. Plus, there is no better feeling than watching your kids grow and turn out better than you."
- JOHN JOSEPH
The WHO
In March of 2018, founder John Joseph transitioned from creating music, partying, and causing chaos while traveling the country to becoming a father who had to learn soothing techniques, changing diapers, and bonding with his child.
From bad boy to fatherhood.
After having kids, he experienced personal growth and realized that fatherhood was his calling and the "Highest Honor" he had ever received.
Fast forward four years, and Proud Father Apparel was born.
Starting with one t-shirt and the slogan “Highest Honor Given” the message quickly resonated, positioning the brand for fathers who are proud of their kids and the men they've become.
the vision
I wanted to build a community for men who turned their lives around for their children and who are proud to be active and present fathers.
The brand is inspired by your kids, our kids, and fathers around the world. It's an everyday celebration. We don't just do this on Father's Day or when we feel like it; this is all year round for us. Is fatherhood tough? Of course it is, but our legacy and what we instill in our children will live on forever and hopefully they can pass it on to their children. It really is the highest honor that men could possibly be given.
We aim to continue changing the narrative behind the word "Father" and men's roles in the household. Based on the numerous amounts of data, if we are present and showing up daily for our kids, they have a bright future for themselves and they won't have to go through the hardships we did. We just have to do the work - challenge accepted.
JOHN JOSEPH