Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is a familiar name in Illinois politics, having served as the state’s 72nd Treasurer before winning election as the 38th Secretary of State on January 9, 2023. But behind his public career is his wife, Jo Terlato, a member of one of America’s most respected wine industry families. As Giannoulias continues his political career in 2026, interest in his personal life, especially his marriage to Jo Terlato, has grown. Here is everything currently known about her.
Who Is Jo Terlato?
Josephine “Jo” Terlato is the wife of Alexi Giannoulias and a fourth-generation member of the Terlato family, which owns and operates Terlato Wines International, a major player in the American fine wine and spirits industry. She is the daughter of Bill Terlato, President and CEO of Terlato Wine Group. The Terlato family has built its name over decades as a leading force in premium wine importing and distribution, and Jo grew up immersed in that world of business, tradition, and philanthropy.
Jo Terlato’s Career Before and After Marriage
Before joining the family wine business full time, Jo Terlato pursued a career in education. She took part in the Teach for America program, working as a fourth-grade teacher at Gary Lighthouse Charter School in Indiana, where she focused on improving literacy and educational outcomes for underprivileged children. She later transitioned into the family business, taking on the role of Illinois region premier division sales manager at Terlato Wines International, where she has applied her knowledge of the wine trade and business strategy to help grow the company’s market presence.
How Alexi Giannoulias and Jo Terlato Met and Got Engaged
Alexi Giannoulias and Jo Terlato dated for more than a year before their engagement became public. Reports at the time noted the couple bonded over a shared love of wine and philanthropy. Giannoulias, then a banker after his years as Illinois Treasurer, confirmed the engagement, marking the first marriage for both of them.
Their Wedding Day
Alexi Giannoulias and Jo Terlato were married on February 15, 2014, over Valentine’s Day weekend in Chicago. The ceremony took place at St. Andrews Greek Orthodox Church on the city’s North Side and was attended by roughly 300 to 500 guests, according to different reports from the time, reflecting the couple’s deep ties to Chicago’s political, business, and philanthropic communities. Notable attendees reportedly included then-Governor Pat Quinn, former U.S. Ambassador to Hungary Eleni Tsakopoulos Kounalakis, and Illinois State Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka. Giannoulias’ two brothers, Demetri and George, served as best men.
Family Life: Alexi Giannoulias and Jo Terlato’s Children
Alexi Giannoulias and Jo Terlato are parents to four daughters. Giannoulias has spoken publicly about family life, including a Mother’s Day tribute he posted online in May 2026 praising both his mother and his wife for their roles raising their children. The couple lives together in Chicago, where Giannoulias continues to serve as Illinois Secretary of State.
Alexi Giannoulias’ Political Career in 2026
Giannoulias, born March 16, 1976, in Chicago, has continued to build his political profile as Illinois Secretary of State, an office he assumed in January 2023 after succeeding longtime Secretary of State Jesse White. In the 2026 election cycle, Giannoulias ran unopposed in the Democratic primary for Secretary of State, securing more than 1.17 million votes as the incumbent candidate. His wife and family have remained a visible part of his public and philanthropic life throughout his time in office.
Why People Are Searching for Jo Terlato
As Alexi Giannoulias’ public profile has grown through his time as Illinois Secretary of State and his 2026 re-election campaign, public curiosity about his personal life, particularly his wife, has increased. Jo Terlato’s background in both education and the wine business, along with her family’s prominent role in Chicago’s business community, has made her a subject of interest beyond her husband’s political career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Alexi Giannoulias married to? Alexi Giannoulias is married to Jo Terlato, a member of the Terlato wine family.
When did Alexi Giannoulias and Jo Terlato get married? They married on February 15, 2014, at St. Andrews Greek Orthodox Church in Chicago.
How many children do Alexi Giannoulias and Jo Terlato have? The couple has four daughters together.
What does Jo Terlato do for work? Jo Terlato works at Terlato Wines International, her family’s wine and spirits company, and previously taught fourth grade through Teach for America.
Is this Alexi Giannoulias’ first marriage? Yes, his marriage to Jo Terlato in 2014 was the first marriage for both of them.
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