Joe Budden, the renowned hip-hop artist and podcast host, has recently made two significant announcements that have sent waves of joy through his circles. He is engaged to his long-term partner, Shadée Monique, and the couple is also expecting their first child together, a baby girl.
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The engagement unfolded in a delightful manner on Sunday, August 30, just a day before Budden’s 46th birthday. Monique had believed she was attending a surprise dinner to celebrate Budden’s milestone birthday, only to be taken by surprise herself when he proposed. The heartwarming moment was captured and shared on social media, featuring Budden down on one knee, presenting a stunning diamond ring crafted by well-known jeweller Elliot Eliantte. In the video, Budden asked, “We doing it or what?” to which Monique responded joyfully, “Of course we are!”


Following the engagement, Budden posted a series of images from the memorable evening on Instagram. In a heartfelt message, he expressed gratitude for the presence of friends and family, describing it as “a really special night”. Notably, the simplicity of his caption, “They said yes. ❤️”, insinuated excitement not just about the engagement but also about the impending arrival of their daughter, which was subsequently revealed the next day.
On Monday, August 31, Budden further shared his thoughts about the surprise dinner and the engagement. He noted that the overwhelming love and support he felt from everyone present left such a profound impact that he nearly forgot it was his own birthday. “EVERYONE involved in my journey was there,” he mentioned, reflecting on the myriad of people who came to celebrate the occasion. He acknowledged those who had played a role in his life and growth, stating, “When I say EVERY part of my life since birth showed up for me I mean it.”
Amidst the celebrations, Budden took a moment to express his love for Monique. He wrote, “I proposed to the love of my life, the woman that’s been by my side for 7 years,” acknowledging her unwavering support that has grounded him in both challenging and joyful times. His poignant message was a testament to their deep bond and commitment to each other.
Monique also shared her excitement on Instagram, describing the engagement as “one of the happiest nights” of her life. She revealed that she had initially believed the dinner was merely a celebration of Budden’s birthday, unaware that he had other romantic plans. In her post, she expressed her elation over both the engagement and their pregnancy announcement, stating, “Two beautiful announcements made for one unforgettable, joy-filled night.”
The couple’s engagement signifies not merely a milestone in their relationship, but the beginning of a new chapter as they prepare to welcome their daughter into the world. Monique encapsulated the atmosphere of love that surrounded them that evening, stating that the outpouring of affection is something too profound to adequately articulate.
As they embark on this journey together, both Budden and Monique have expressed their deep love and commitment to one another, hinting at a future filled with shared dreams and aspirations. With their relationship blossoming over the past seven years, the couple looks forward to building a family together, with Budden expressing enthusiasm for fatherhood once more.
In closing, this moment marks a festive and significant turning point for Budden and Monique. Their engagement and forthcoming parenthood promise to bring even more joy and excitement into their lives, as they look ahead to the future intertwined in love and family.
