Beyonce Knowles celebrated her 30th birthday in Italy with her husband Jay-Z yesterday (04.09.11).

The 'Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)' hitmaker revealed at last month's MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) that she and her rapper spouse are expecting their first child together and the couple enjoyed a romantic dinner date in Venice in their first public appearance since the announcement.

Onlookers observed the singer looked "radiant and happy" as the pair left their hotel, with a protective Jay-Z holding his wife's hand.

Beyonce and Jay-Z tied the knot in 2008 and while they have previously spoken of their desire to start a family, friends say they wanted to enjoy their first years of marriage before having children.

A source said: "She and Jay wanted to focus on their careers and enjoy the first years of their marriage.

"Now, with everything so perfect in both those regards, she can't wait to be a mom."

Earlier this year, Beyonce spoke of her desire to settle down into being a wife and mother.

She said: "When you're young - 18 or 19 - you have the energy and drive. That's the time to work as hard as you can.

"Now I'm a woman, and because I gave it my all, I can focus on my marriage. I can decide I want to have kids. I can be the mother I want to be and dedicate myself to my children."