Nelly and Ashanti threw a first birthday party fit for a little king, celebrating their son’s big day on July 19 in Long Island, New York. Their baby boy, born Kareem Kenkaide Haynes on July 18, 2024, marked the milestone surrounded by family, close friends, and a whole lot of love.

The party was inspired by “Kunda and Friends,” a children’s series rooted in African storytelling. The venue was transformed into a colorful playground featuring a dual slide and playpen, a race track, a bounce house, and even a stage where life-sized Kunda and the Lion waved to the crowd. Each tiny vehicle in the mini raceway had “KK Turns One” stamped on the side.

Adding a personal touch, Louisa Kiwana Olafuyi—co-creator of “Kunda and Friends”—flew in from Uganda to surprise the Haynes family with an exclusive animated episode featuring Nelly, Ashanti, and KK himself.

Guests pulled up in style, including LL Cool J and his wife Simone Smith, and singer Lloyd. Family and friends wore matching shirts with personalized messages that reflected their connection to KK. Hot Wheels added to the fun, gifting Ultimate Garage playsets and toy cars to the young guests. Food and drinks came courtesy of Evelyn’s Kitchen and Cuts & Slices, while the sweets were handled by Toni’s Minis and Hanoli Cakes NY.

And KK? He made his entrance like a boss, pulling up in a tiny white Lamborghini, sunglasses on and crown in place, giggling as guests cheered him on.

“We can’t believe KK is 1,” Ashanti and Nelly shared with PEOPLE. “This year has flown by. Watching him grow and hit milestones has been the joy of our lives.”

Ashanti’s been intentional about keeping her baby boy out of the spotlight, calling their bond “sacred” during a panel at the American Black Film Festival earlier this summer. “We’ll make the decision on when he’s ready to pop out and show,” she said.

Hopefully, we get introduced to KK soon. Happy birthday, KK!