Nelly and Ashanti just lately marked a milestone of their new chapter collectively—the primary birthday of their son, Kareem Kenkaide Haynes. The couple, who quietly tied the knot in 2023, hosted an over-the-top celebration in Long Island that supplied a glimpse into their pleasure as first-time dad and mom.

The celebration, styled round Kunda and Friends, introduced out a full slate of points of interest: twin slides, a full-scale play space, and a miniature racetrack for youths. Celebrities together with LL Cool J and Lloyd made appearances, together with Louisa Kiwana Olafuyi, co-creator of Kunda and Friends, who traveled from Uganda to attend.

Reflecting on the day, the couple advised PEOPLE, “We can’t believe KK is already 1. This year has flown by, and we have cherished every moment of watching his milestones, joyful experiences, and growth. He brings immense happiness to us and our family.”

A Rekindled Love, Now Rooted in Parenthood

Nelly and Ashanti’s street to parenthood started with a second likelihood. The two dated from 2003 to 2013 earlier than parting methods, solely to cross paths once more throughout a Verzuz occasion in 2021 that includes Fat Joe and Ja Rule. As Nelly recalled to Bootleg Kev, “We didn’t even talk. I just went over for a hug… broke the ice… We didn’t speak for almost 8-9 months to a year. There was no conversation.” In time, they rekindled their relationship, in the end marrying two years later.

While each are used to life within the highlight, Ashanti has been cautious to maintain their son’s life personal. At the American Black Film Festival, she opened up about her determination to maintain Kareem out of the general public eye. “I feel like I’m already a protective mama bear, you know? I just didn’t want to expose my son to the world. I haven’t even shared pictures of him on Instagram or anything like that. Those moments are very precious to me, and we’ll decide when he’s ready to make an appearance.”

Though they’ve constructed their careers on stage and display screen, the couple’s newest position—co-parents to a one-year-old—may be their most grounding but.