Jo Terlato, the wife of Alexi Giannoulias, comes from a well-known family with deep roots in the wine industry. She is a fourth-generation member of the Terlato family, which has built a strong reputation in the luxury wine business through Terlato Wines International. This company has been a leader in introducing fine wines to the American market, making the Terlato name synonymous with high-quality winemaking. Growing up in a family so closely tied to the wine business, Jo was exposed to the art of wine production and sales from an early age, learning firsthand the dedication and expertise required to maintain such a legacy. Despite her background, she chose to explore her interests beyond the family business before ultimately finding her way back to it.
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Quick Information Table: Alexi Giannoulias’ Wife – Jo Terlato
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Josephine “Jo” Terlato |
Family Legacy | Terlato Wines International (Luxury Wine Business) |
Career | Former Educator, Wine Industry Executive |
Education | Teach for America Alumna, Business Leader |
Spouse | Alexi Giannoulias (Illinois Secretary of State) |
Wedding Date | February 15, 2014 |
Notable Work | Philanthropy, CURE Epilepsy Support, Education Advocacy |
Heritage | Italian-American |
Children | Yes, has children with Alexi Giannoulias |
Professional Endeavors and Achievements
Before fully stepping into her family’s wine business, Jo Terlato pursued a career in education, demonstrating her passion for making a difference in young lives. She participated in the Teach for America program, where she worked as a fourth-grade teacher at Gary Lighthouse Charter School in Indiana, focusing on improving literacy and educational outcomes for underprivileged children. Her experience in the classroom gave her a deep appreciation for the importance of education and community service. Later, she transitioned into the Terlato Wines International business, where she took on a leadership role as the Illinois region premier division sales manager. In this position, she contributed significantly to the company’s growth, leveraging her knowledge of fine wines and business strategies to expand market reach. Her experience in both education and business reflects her diverse skill set and commitment to excellence in every field she enters.
The Union of Alexi Giannoulias and Jo Terlato
Alexi Giannoulias and Jo Terlato’s love story is one that brings together two highly respected families—one known for political influence and the other for luxury wines. The couple married on February 15, 2014, in a beautiful ceremony held at St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church in Chicago. Their wedding was a grand event that reflected their shared cultural heritage, blending Greek and Italian traditions in a celebration attended by close friends, family, and notable figures from political and business circles. Their union symbolizes the merging of their respective worlds, with both partners bringing their unique strengths and experiences to their relationship. Together, they continue to support each other in their personal and professional endeavors, standing as a powerful couple with a strong presence in Illinois.

Family Life and Shared Interests
Alexi Giannoulias and Jo Terlato have built a fulfilling family life together, balancing their demanding careers with their roles as parents. While Jo remains actively involved in the wine industry, she also prioritizes her family, ensuring a nurturing and loving home environment. The couple shares a strong bond over their common interests in philanthropy, community engagement, and business leadership. They often attend events supporting local charities and organizations, using their influence to contribute to meaningful causes. Their ability to maintain a balance between public and private life highlights their commitment to both their family and their responsibilities to the community.
Jo Terlato’s Role in Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Beyond her business and family commitments, Jo Terlato has dedicated herself to philanthropy, actively supporting causes that focus on education, healthcare, and community development. She has been involved in organizations such as CURE Epilepsy, advocating for medical research and funding to improve the lives of those affected by epilepsy. Her passion for giving back is also evident in her work with educational programs, where she has contributed to initiatives that provide learning resources to underprivileged students. Through her philanthropic efforts, Jo continues to make a significant impact, using her platform to support causes that align with her values and commitment to making a difference.

Conclusion
Jo Terlato, the wife of Alexi Giannoulias, is a woman of remarkable achievements, blending a strong family heritage with her own passion for education, business, and philanthropy. While she comes from the prestigious Terlato wine dynasty, her impact extends far beyond the family business, as she has dedicated her career to both teaching and leadership in the luxury wine industry. As a devoted wife and mother, she balances her professional and personal responsibilities with grace, all while giving back to the community through her philanthropic work. Her journey is a testament to hard work, dedication, and a deep commitment to positively influencing the world around her.
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FAQs
Who is Jo Terlato?
Jo Terlato is the wife of Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and a member of the well-known Terlato wine family. She has a background in education and business, having worked as a teacher before taking on a leadership role in Terlato Wines International.
When did Alexi Giannoulias and Jo Terlato get married?
The couple married on February 15, 2014, in a Greek Orthodox ceremony in Chicago, blending their Greek and Italian heritages.
What is Jo Terlato known for?
Jo Terlato is known for her work in education, her leadership role in the wine industry, and her philanthropic contributions to causes such as CURE Epilepsy and educational initiatives.
Does Jo Terlato have children with Alexi Giannoulias?
Yes, the couple has children together, and they prioritize family life while balancing their professional and philanthropic commitments.
What charities does Jo Terlato support?
Jo Terlato is involved in various charitable causes, including organizations focused on education, healthcare, and community support, such as CURE Epilepsy.