In an age where moments are fleeting, the Hogan family from Minnetonka, Minnesota, captured one that will be cherished forever: the first meeting between 2-year-old Remy and her newborn sister, Reaney. The encounter, now immortalized in a viral Instagram video, radiates love, joy, and the essence of siblinghood.
The moment unfolded in a sunlit hospital room. Little Remy entered, brimming with excitement, not for the hospital’s oddities or even to see her mom—but for her new baby sister. Spotting Reaney nestled snugly in her bassinet, Remy’s face lit up with wonder. Her wide smile, gentle hugs, and tender kisses spoke volumes, a silent yet powerful declaration of love.
Their parents, Nicole and Jack Hogan, recall this as a defining family moment. “To see the natural connection and love between Remy and her baby sister had me smiling, laughing, and crying all at the same time,” Nicole shared. For the couple, who manage a photography business and juggle other careers, this milestone was a testament to the strong roots they’ve nurtured as a family.
Building the Bond Even Before Birth
Preparing Remy for her role as a big sister started early. When Nicole discovered she was pregnant in August 2023, she introduced the idea of a sibling to then 20-month-old Remy. Every day brought new opportunities to engage Remy in the journey—talking about the baby, involving her in preparations, and making the experience exciting.
“At first, it was just a vague concept,” Nicole admitted. But over nine months, the idea blossomed into understanding. By the time Reaney arrived, Remy was ready—though the depth of her affection during that first meeting even surprised her parents.
Viral Sensation
The video of the sisters’ first encounter didn’t just resonate with the Hogans—it touched hearts worldwide. Shared on Instagram, the clip has been viewed nearly 8 million times. It features Remy enthusiastically greeting her sister, cradling her tiny hands, and even presenting her with a pink dress—a symbolic gesture of welcome into their shared world.
Nicole reflects on the response, saying, “I’m not sure I expected the video to go viral, but it’s easy to see why it did. It was such a pure moment.”
A Blossoming Relationship
Now inseparable, Remy and Reaney have developed a bond that continues to grow. At just 4 months old, Reaney has started discovering her voice and personality, while Remy has embraced her role as a protector and guide.
“Remy seems to understand the responsibility of caring for her little sister,” Nicole observed. Whether it’s teaching Reaney about the world around them or simply sharing toys, Remy exhibits a natural protectiveness that leaves her parents in awe.
For Jack and Nicole, watching their daughters together is a daily reminder of the strength of family. “Seeing the two of them brings a giant smile to my face,” Nicole said. “It’s incredible to see our family roots growing and blossoming.”
Beyond the Camera
Though the video gained worldwide attention, the Hogans focus on the everyday joys of parenting. Jack, who also works in project development, and Nicole, who captures moments through her lens as a photographer, prioritize their daughters’ happiness above all else.
While Remy is too young to grasp her internet fame, she’s too busy reveling in her role as “big sister” to care. From playful giggles to shared cuddles, the sisters are writing a story of their own—a narrative of love, curiosity, and the timeless magic of sisterhood.
For those who’ve followed their journey online, the Hogan family’s story is more than a viral moment. It’s a reminder of the beauty in life’s simplest, most authentic connections.