On September 1, 2025, country music star Jelly Roll and his wife, Bunnie Xo, mark their ninth wedding anniversary, a milestone that celebrates a love story as vibrant and unconventional as the couple themselves. From a whirlwind Las Vegas proposal and same-night wedding in 2016 to a heartfelt vow renewal in 2023, their journey has been one of passion, perseverance, and profound mutual support. Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord, has risen from a troubled past to become a chart-topping artist, while Bunnie, a multifaceted entrepreneur and podcast host, has been his rock through personal and professional triumphs. Together, they’ve navigated the complexities of fame, family, and blended parenthood, with Bunnie stepping up as a devoted stepmother to Jelly’s two children. This article explores their remarkable relationship, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the enduring bond that continues to inspire fans worldwide.

A Love Story Born in Las Vegas

The story of Jelly Roll and Bunnie Xo’s romance is the stuff of rock ‘n’ roll legend, infused with the raw authenticity that defines their public personas. In 2016, Jelly Roll was a rising rapper and country artist, performing at a concert in Las Vegas when he spotted Bunnie—real name Alisa DeFord—in the crowd. Their connection was instantaneous, though they’d only been dating for a short time. In a moment of pure spontaneity, Jelly paused his performance to propose to Bunnie onstage, the neon lights of Sin City amplifying the drama of the moment. “I just knew,” Jelly later said in a 2020 interview with Billboard. “She was the one, and I wasn’t letting her go.”

What followed was even more extraordinary: that same night, August 31, 2016, the couple tied the knot in a Las Vegas chapel, surrounded by the whirlwind energy of their impulsive decision. “We didn’t overthink it,” Bunnie shared on her podcast, Dumb Blonde, in 2021. “We were in love, and Vegas felt like the perfect place to make it official.” The impromptu wedding, complete with an Elvis impersonator officiating, became a defining moment in their story, symbolizing their willingness to embrace life’s unpredictability.

Building a Life Together

Jelly Roll and Bunnie’s relationship was never just about the glitz of a Vegas wedding. From the outset, they faced real-world challenges that tested their commitment. Jelly, who grew up in Antioch, Tennessee, had a tumultuous past marked by legal troubles, including multiple arrests for drug-related charges and a stint in prison as a teenager. His early life was shaped by the gritty realities of Nashville’s underbelly, experiences that later fueled his raw, soulful music. When he met Bunnie, he was still carving out his place in the music industry, transitioning from hip-hop to a genre-blending mix of country, rock, and rap.

Bunnie, a Las Vegas native with a bold personality and a knack for entrepreneurship, brought stability and strength to their partnership. Known for her work as a podcast host, model, and social media influencer, Bunnie had built her own brand with Dumb Blonde, a platform where she interviews celebrities and shares unfiltered stories about her life. Her openness about her own struggles— including a difficult childhood and past relationships—resonated with Jelly, who valued her authenticity and resilience.

Together, they forged a partnership rooted in mutual support. “Bunnie’s been my anchor,” Jelly said in a 2024 interview with Rolling Stone. “She’s seen me at my lowest and never wavered.” Bunnie, in turn, has praised Jelly’s vulnerability and dedication. “He’s got this big, tough exterior, but he’s the softest soul I know,” she told People in 2023. Their dynamic—playful yet profound—has endeared them to fans, who see their relationship as a beacon of hope and authenticity in an often-polished celebrity world.

Stepmother and Supporter: Bunnie’s Role in the Family

One of the most significant aspects of Jelly Roll and Bunnie’s marriage is their blended family. Jelly brought two children into the relationship from previous partnerships: daughter Bailee Ann, born in 2008, and son Noah Buddy, born in 2016. Bunnie embraced her role as a stepmother with grace and dedication, earning praise from Jelly and fans alike for her commitment to the children.

Bailee, now 17, has been a central figure in the couple’s public life. Jelly has been open about his regret for missing parts of her early childhood due to his incarceration and career demands. In his 2023 documentary, Jelly Roll: Save Me, he tearfully recounted his efforts to rebuild his relationship with Bailee. Bunnie played a pivotal role in this process, fostering a nurturing environment for Bailee and helping her navigate the challenges of adolescence. “Bunnie’s been a mom to Bailee in every way that matters,” Jelly said in a 2024 Instagram post. “She didn’t have to step up, but she did.”

Noah, now 9, has also benefited from Bunnie’s presence. Described by Jelly as a “mama’s boy,” Noah shares a close bond with Bunnie, who often shares heartwarming moments with him on social media. From attending school events to cheering at his soccer games, Bunnie has fully embraced her role, balancing it with her career and advocacy work. “Those kids are my world,” she said on Dumb Blonde in 2022. “I never thought I’d be a stepmom, but it’s the greatest gift.”

Bunnie’s role extends beyond parenting. She’s been a fierce advocate for Jelly’s mental health, particularly during his struggles with addiction and the pressures of fame. In Save Me, Jelly credited Bunnie with helping him confront his demons, including his battles with substance abuse and the emotional toll of his past. “She’s the one who said, ‘You need to talk about this, Jason,’” he recalled. “She pushed me to be honest with myself and my fans.”

The Vow Renewal: A Testament to Endurance

In 2023, Jelly Roll and Bunnie reaffirmed their love with a vow renewal ceremony that captured the hearts of fans. Held on their seventh anniversary, the event took place at the same Las Vegas chapel where they’d married in 2016. Unlike their spontaneous wedding, the renewal was a carefully planned celebration, attended by close family, friends, and their children. “We wanted to honor what we’ve built,” Bunnie shared on Instagram, posting a photo of the couple holding hands under a floral arch. “Seven years, two kids, a million dreams, and we’re still here.”

The ceremony was a blend of nostalgia and renewal. Jelly, dressed in a tailored black suit, recited heartfelt vows, while Bunnie, radiant in a white gown, spoke of their shared journey. Bailee and Noah played special roles, with Bailee reading a poem and Noah presenting the rings. The event was livestreamed on Bunnie’s YouTube channel, drawing thousands of viewers who flooded the comments with messages of love. “You guys are proof that real love exists,” one fan wrote.

The vow renewal wasn’t just a celebration of their marriage but a reflection of their growth. By 2023, Jelly Roll had achieved mainstream success with his album Whitsitt Chapel, which topped the Billboard Country Albums chart and earned him three CMA Awards, including New Artist of the Year. Bunnie, meanwhile, had expanded her brand, launching a skincare line and growing Dumb Blonde into one of the top music podcasts in the U.S. Their shared success made the renewal a moment to celebrate not just their love but their partnership as a creative and entrepreneurial powerhouse.

Navigating Fame and Challenges

Jelly Roll and Bunnie’s journey hasn’t been without obstacles. The couple has faced public scrutiny, particularly over Jelly’s past legal troubles and Bunnie’s candid discussions about her life before fame. Social media trolls have occasionally targeted Bunnie, criticizing her outspoken personality or her role in Jelly’s life. Yet, she’s remained unapologetic, using her platform to advocate for mental health, body positivity, and second chances. “I’m not here to be perfect,” she said in a 2024 Dumb Blonde episode. “I’m here to be real.”

Jelly, too, has faced challenges, particularly the pressure of maintaining authenticity in an industry that often demands conformity. His music, which blends raw storytelling with themes of redemption, has resonated with millions but also invited criticism from purists who question his genre-blending style. Through it all, Bunnie has been his fiercest defender, often taking to social media to clap back at detractors. “My man’s out here saving lives with his music,” she tweeted in 2024, responding to a critic. “Y’all can keep your opinions.”

The couple’s openness about their struggles has only deepened their connection with fans. In Save Me, Jelly shared how Bunnie encouraged him to seek therapy, a decision that transformed his life. “She saw something in me I didn’t see in myself,” he said. Their transparency about mental health, addiction, and family dynamics has made them role models for those facing similar challenges.

A Ninth Anniversary to Remember

As Jelly Roll and Bunnie celebrate their ninth anniversary on September 1, 2025, they do so with a renewed sense of gratitude. The couple has hinted at a low-key celebration, with Bunnie posting on Instagram about a planned “staycation” at a Nashville retreat. “Nine years of chaos, love, and everything in between,” she captioned a photo of the couple laughing together. “Here’s to us, babe.”

Fans have flooded social media with messages of congratulations, with hashtags like #JellyAndBunnie and #NineYearsStrong trending on X. The couple’s story resonates because it’s not a fairy tale but a testament to real, messy, beautiful love. From their impulsive Vegas wedding to their role as parents and partners, Jelly and Bunnie have built a life that reflects their shared values: resilience, authenticity, and unwavering support.

Looking Ahead

As they enter their tenth year of marriage, Jelly Roll and Bunnie show no signs of slowing down. Jelly’s upcoming 2026 tour, Redemption Road, promises to bring his music to new audiences, while Bunnie is set to release a memoir chronicling her journey from Las Vegas to Nashville. Together, they’re exploring new ventures, including a potential joint podcast that would combine Jelly’s storytelling with Bunnie’s interview skills. “We’re just getting started,” Jelly told Variety in July 2025. “Bunnie and I, we’re a team, and we’ve got big plans.”

Their family remains at the heart of their story. Bailee, now preparing for college, has expressed interest in music, while Noah’s love for sports keeps the couple busy on the sidelines. Bunnie’s role as a stepmother continues to evolve, with her and Jelly prioritizing open communication and love in their blended family.

Conclusion

Jelly Roll and Bunnie Xo’s ninth anniversary is more than a celebration of time—it’s a testament to a love that has weathered storms and emerged stronger. From their spontaneous 2016 wedding to their 2023 vow renewal, they’ve shown that true partnership is about growth, forgiveness, and standing together through life’s highs and lows. Bunnie’s role as a stepmother and supporter has been integral to their story, while Jelly’s gratitude for her unwavering presence underscores their bond. As they mark this milestone, their fans celebrate not just a marriage but a legacy of resilience and authenticity. Here’s to Jelly Roll and Bunnie Xo—nine years strong, with many more to come.