Our surprise baby announcement and proposal
The Butlers’ paths first crossed back in 2011 on a cold and snowy February morning. Robert was headed to work and Ashley was headed to school. Fate intervened by having the two stop at the same Shell gas station in Dolton, IL. Robert saw Ashley and it was love at first sight(☺️🥰). After exchanging phone numbers, the two became inseparable. What started as a few dates and phone calls transformed into a 5 year relationship and friendship. The Proposal February 26th, 2014, was the “golden” 26th birthday of Ashley. It was this night that Robert and Ashley decided to host dinner for family and friends at Uncle Julio’s in Orland Park, IL. It was also the same night that they decided to announce their 1st pregnancy. While Ashley thought that they would be surprising the whole party, Robert had other plans. Right after they dropped the news of their pregnancy, Robert shocked Ashley with a proposal. He worked with Ashley’s sister by having her gift wrap five boxes to represent the five years they dated. He also made sure multiple people were recording so the moment she opened the final box he would be ready to get on one knee to pop the big question. Astounded by his proposal, Ashley said yes and the whole room applauded. What’s even better is the whole event plus proposal was caught on camera and made into a YouTube video. Fast forward 10 years later, Robert and Ashley are standing strong with 3 beautiful children, a dog, and one annoying cat. There has been lots of love, laughs, and tears over the years. This vow renewal is a testament to withstanding the ups and downs of black love over a decade of time. #ButlerStrong