Ashley Darby’s Son Dean Just Celebrated a Major “First” and It’s a “Bittersweet Moment”

Dean Michael Darby is growing up — and his mama has “bittersweet” feelings about it. In a February 27 Instagram post, Ashley Darby shared a photo of her first child in a kiddie salon chair. With a big smile on his face and a headful of beautiful, freshly snipped curls, the 3-year-old had just experienced a major “first.”

“My baby boy’s first haircut! Such a bittersweet moment,” The Real Housewives of Potomac cast member captioned the post. Could it be that the 10-week-old peanut in the clip above is now having visits with his hairstylist? Time files in Potomac! 

In her post, Ashley tagged Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids in Falls Church, Virginia. According to its website, the spot promises tons of perks for its wee clients, including gaming stations, lollipops, and a balloon. And as Dean’s perfectly styled ’do demonstrates, each cut includes a blow-dry.

It’s no wonder Dean has such a gorgeous head of hair. His stylish mom has a track record of excellence in the coif department. She’s zhuzhed up the Potomac beauty beat with round layers and front fringe, sleek jet-black ponytails, and the occasional mid-reunion hair change. 

Indeed, this curly-haired charmer got it from his mama: 

Dean celebrated his third birthday this past summer. The ladies of Potomac are no strangers to fabulous kids’ birthday bashes, and Dean’s kid-friendly fete was no exception.

The little one was the guest of honor at an Octonauts-themed party that had all the bells and whistles. It included balloon installations, custom signs, and a dessert table overflowing with sweet treats. And Dean isn’t the only little Darby who’s getting bigger. 

Earlier this month, Ashley’s younger son, Dylan, turned 2. Ashley planned a “Wheels on the Bus” themed party where kiddos could paint, play in a bounce house, and toss around balls in a pit. 

But it’s not just birthdays that inspire Ashley to celebrate her little men. Whether she’s capturing a first haircut, taking the kids on a bike ride on a sunny day, or cooking up plans to teach them about yard work, the mother of two is always finding fun ways to bond with Dean and Dylan. 

And while she teaches her kids the ways of the world (and haircuts), Ashley learns from her sons too. In the clip above, she shares one of the first lessons Dean taught her. “[Motherhood] has been the most incredible experience so far, and Dean has taught me a lot,” Ashley says in the video, as she cradles a teeny Dean in one arm. “Mostly about patience!” 

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