Ashanti and Nelly, two iconic figures in the music industry, reportedly tied the knot at the end of 2023. According to TMZ, public records show the couple’s marriage certificate in St. Louis County, MO, dated December 27, 2023.
Ashanti Secret Ceremony and Future Plans
While the marriage was a private affair, a public ceremony might still be in the cards. Ashanti recently discussed her dream wedding with Entertainment Tonight. “Beach, sunshine, and palm trees are all non-negotiables,” she shared.
Currently, Ashanti and Nelly are expecting their first child together. This will be Ashanti’s first child and Nelly’s third. Nelly has two children, Chanelle, 29, and Cornell Haynes III, 24. He is also the adoptive parent to Shawn and Sydney Thomas, his late sister’s children.
Rekindling Romance
The couple’s relationship dates back to 2003. They initially dated for ten years before breaking up in 2013. In a surprising turn of events, rapper Fat Joe claimed responsibility for their reunion. The pair reconnected at his Verzuz battle against Ja Rule in 2021.
Ashanti expressed her disbelief at their reunion, saying, “Never in a million years did I think we would be here. Ten years ago — maybe yes — but after our breakup, you know, I didn’t even think we’d ever have a conversation again.”
She continued, “The growth has been like superb, you know, like on both ends. We are both at a place where like before, sometimes we would argue and walk out, slam the door, and not talk for a few days. Now, it’s kinda like, ‘All right, you good?’ It’s not like holding on and bickering and we find out what the resolution is. We are so, so aligned.”
An Intimate Proposal
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Ashanti described the proposal as a “beautiful, intimate moment” at home. “I definitely had one of his T-shirts and his boxers,” she joked, emphasizing her surprise.
Ashanti celebrated her first Mother’s Day as an expecting mother in May, sharing the joyous occasion on Instagram. “This Mother’s Day was so special,” she captioned a post with family members, cradling her baby bump. “Having our families together as we are about to embark on such an incredible journey was amazing.”
In her announcement with Essence, Ashanti reflected on the changes in her life. “This new year of my life is such a blessing full of love, hope, and anticipation,” she said. “Motherhood is something that I have looked forward to.”
The couple’s engagement and pregnancy news has delighted fans, marking a new chapter in their enduring love story.