Margaret & Sam’s Preserve at Dundee Engagement Session
There’s something magical about photographing a couple whose love feels effortless—like they were always meant to find their way to each other. That’s exactly how it felt capturing Margaret & Sam’s Preserve at Dundee engagement session. Every smile, laugh, and glance between them reflected a connection that’s been growing stronger for nearly eight years.
A Richmond Love Story That Started by Chance
Margaret and Sam’s story begins in Richmond, Virginia, where they both grew up just a few miles apart. Margaret attended St. Gertrude High School, while Sam went to Godwin. Despite their close circles (Margaret’s best friend is actually Sam’s god-sister!), their paths never crossed back then.
It wasn’t until college that fate stepped in. During their freshman year, they both happened to be at Ole Miss for the Ole Miss vs. LSU game. Margaret was visiting her cousin Libby—now her Matron of Honor—and Sam was visiting his best friend Jesse—now his Best Man.
They spent that weekend tailgating, laughing and cheering on their team. Sam even asked for her number, but Margaret turned him down! Months later, Sam tracked her down on Snapchat, and Margaret’s heart skipped a beat when his name popped up.
They reconnected, started talking again, and when summer break rolled around, they made plans to meet up. From that moment on, they were inseparable.
After three years of long-distance love and seven and a half years together, they’re now planning their dream wedding—and celebrating this new chapter with a beautiful engagement session at The Preserve at Dundee.
What Drew Them to Each Other
For Margaret, it wasn’t one thing—it was everything.
“We just clicked. Everything about him felt easy and fun. His dark hair and blue eyes didn’t hurt, but really, it was how he made me feel—seen, special, and understood—that made me fall for him. My favorite thing about Sam is that he makes me love myself thought his eyes”.
Sam felt the same instant spark.
“The way Margaret smiles with her eyes and lights up a room instantly caught my attention. Talking to her felt natural right away—it was an instant connection.”
Their love is built on kindness, balance, and a deep sense of understanding. Margaret loves how thoughtful Sam is—how he can read her mood with a single sigh and somehow always knows what she needs. Sam says Margaret makes him a better man: “She’s constantly positive and makes everyone around her feel loved and comfortable.”
Their First Date: Sweet & Simple
Their first date story is straight out of a rom-com. The day after Margaret had her wisdom teeth out, Sam took her to Chick-fil-A for ice cream—since that was all she could eat! They spent the evening watching movies and laughing together. A few days later, they had their first “official” date at The Boathouse, and from then on, they were hooked.
Why They Chose The Preserve at Dundee
When it came time to choose a location for their engagement photos, The Preserve at Dundee was the obvious choice.
“It felt like the perfect blend of both of us,” Margaret shared. “It has that outdoorsy, natural charm that feels so Sam, and the floral, romantic beauty that feels so me.”
Every inch of the property offered a breathtaking backdrop—the open fields, lush greenery, and golden light created the perfect setting for a romantic Preserve at Dundee engagement session.
The Outfits: Classic & Effortless Style
Margaret chose two gorgeous looks for their session. The first was a green and brown floral Staud dress that tied perfectly into their wedding color palette. The second was a lace halter gown from BHLDN—a soft, timeless look that paired beautifully with the venue’s natural elegance.
Sam, styled by Margaret’s aunt “Bird,” wore a classic blazer, khakis, Justin boots, and a belt Margaret had gifted him. The combination of textures and tones made their outfits effortlessly cohesive against the backdrop of The Preserve’s rolling hills.
The Vibe of Their Preserve at Dundee Engagement Session
Margaret and Sam wanted their session to feel natural, joyful, and authentically them. They didn’t want anything too posed or formal—just candid moments that captured how they laugh, love, and exist together.
From spontaneous laughter under the trees to quiet, tender moments by the water, their Preserve at Dundee engagement session radiated warmth and genuine connection. The energy between them made every shot come alive—it was pure joy from beginning to end.
Looking Ahead: Excitement for Their Wedding Day
Margaret and Sam are counting down the days to “I do.”
Margaret shared, “I’m most excited to see Sam’s reaction as I walk down the aisle with my dad. We’re not doing a first look, and I think that moment will be so emotional.” She’s also excited to celebrate surrounded by their closest friends and family.
Sam said, “I’m not sure I’ll be able to hold it together seeing her in her dress for the first time. I’m equally excited to have everyone we love in one place—it’s going to be unforgettable.”
Engagement Advice from the Couple
Their best advice for newly engaged couples?
“Book Nicki—she’s the best (seriously).”
They also recommend taking time to slow down and enjoy this special season. “We gave ourselves a month just to soak in being engaged before starting to plan. Don’t rush—celebrate the moment you’re in.”
A Perfect Reflection of Their Love
Margaret & Sam’s Preserve at Dundee engagement session was everything an engagement shoot should be—romantic, natural, and full of personality. The venue’s breathtaking landscape perfectly reflected their story: grounded in love, laughter, and connection.
It was an honor to photograph this chapter in their journey, and I can’t wait to capture the next one when they say “I do.”
Here’s to forever, Margaret & Sam—you two are the real deal. ❤️
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