Our hybrid journey with Hive

Four years ago, we made the decision to grow our family through surrogacy. At that time, we knew very little about the complexity of the journey ahead, but we knew one thing for sure: we wanted a partner we could truly trust. We are a European couple living in Germany, and when we began this path, it was important to us that our agency would provide more than just logistics – we needed someone who would be there for us every step of the way, caring deeply not only for us but also for the incredible woman who would carry our child.

From our very first call with Hive, we felt that connection. The team knew exactly what they were talking about – not only because of their professional experience but also because of their personal journeys. They made it clear that with Hive, you are never just a number. With their philosophy of taking on only a handful of journeys at a time, we always felt that we had their full attention. Every question we had was answered with patience, honesty, and sometimes the kind of direct clarity we really needed. It was always supportive, always kind, and always real.

Within just seven months, Hive introduced us to A., our surrogate, and from the very first conversation we knew it was the perfect match. Our values, expectations, and vision for the journey aligned seamlessly. What could have been a daunting step felt natural and right. From that moment on, we built a close bond – weekly video calls, daily messages, photo updates, and a sense of shared excitement. It never felt transactional; it felt like family.

Because our embryos were in the U.S.A. traveled twice to Las Vegas for her medical check and the

transfer. While we had been worried that the travel might be a burden, she embraced it with joy and turned it into a positive experience. The transfer worked on the very first attempt – a gift we will never stop being grateful for. The pregnancy itself was smooth and healthy, and thanks to Hive, we always felt as though we were right there beside her. We joined ultrasounds virtually, spoke with her midwife by video call, and shared the little milestones of the pregnancy together.

When it was finally time, we spent seven weeks in Stratford, Ontario, awaiting the birth. Those weeks were some of the most beautiful of our lives. They brought us even closer together with A. and her family, and by the time E. arrived, we truly felt like one extended family.

The moment we first saw our son, heard his cry, and held him in our arms is impossible to put into words. It was the culmination of years of hope, trust, and love. We cried tears of joy, overwhelmed by gratitude – for E., for A., and for Hive, who had guided us through every step. Even after the birth, Hive was there: visiting us in Stratford, supporting A. emotionally in the delicate weeks after delivery, and helping us navigate the transition as we prepared to return home. Their care didn’t end with the arrival of our baby – it extended beyond, ensuring that all of us, including A., felt supported.

What also makes Hive so special is the community they are building. It is not only about intended parents and surrogates individually – it’s about bringing everyone together. We had the chance to experience this firsthand at Camp Hive, where surrogates spent an entire weekend together, sharing their journeys, supporting each other, and celebrating the amazing role they play. As intended parents, we were invited to join for a BBQ dinner, and it was one of the most heartwarming experiences of the whole journey. Meeting other families, connecting with surrogates, and feeling that sense of belonging reminded us once again that Hive is not just an agency – it’s a community.

Looking back, we know this journey would not have been possible without Hive. Their dedication,

professionalism, and genuine care for both intended parents and surrogates made what could have been overwhelming feel safe and filled with trust. They were our advisors, our advocates, and often our emotional anchors.

As we now look forward to a sibling journey for E., there is no question in our minds – we want to do it with Hive again.

If we could give any advice to other intended parents, it would be this:

• Trust your gut – you will know when it feels right.

• Be yourselves – openness and honesty create the strongest relationships.

• Allow yourselves to feel the rollercoaster of emotions – because in the end, it is the most beautiful ride imaginable.

• And most importantly: choose an agency that doesn’t just guide you, but truly cares for you and your surrogate. For us, that was Hive.