This chic wedding at the Preserve at Dundee was a classic wedding day experience with formal attire and joy-filled moments. Ali and Stewart’s Preserve at Dundee wedding day was a celebration of their love story. One that came together through a mutual collection of friends. Funny enough, Ali and Stewart’s presence began to orbit one another in middle school. During that time they sat next to each other in Spanish class. But, having attended different high schools and colleges, it wasn’t until graduation approached that their paths crossed again. One fateful trip to Key West with their mutual friends at each of their sides, Ali and Stewart connected, instantly feeling the sparks fly between them.
Their instant connection grew into a deeply loving and meaningful relationship. In a matter of time, they would become engaged. During one fateful trip to Emerald Isle North Carolina, Ali and Stewart visited Ali’s nana’s home. Over the years, it had become one of their favorite places to escape life together. They spent the weekend on the beach, soaking up the warmth of the sun and the gentle spray of the sea. As they headed to dinner, Stewart suggested a walk along the shore.
With the wind whipping the beach, Ali noticed the shore seemed to be empty, except for a family of 3. It seemed odd, but she chalked it up to the abnormal weather. However, as it turned out, it was a “family posing for photos” who were faking it in order to capture Stewart proposing to Ali. At that moment, Stewart knelt down and asked Ali if she would spend the rest of her life with him and she gleefully accepted.
Preserve at Dundee Wedding
One of Ali and Stewart’s favorite things to enjoy together in their spare time are walks outdoors. Growing up, Ali always envisioned an outdoor wedding. Solidifying their love for the outdoors, Ali and Stewart set out to find a wedding venue that would allow them to be joined in marriage against a beautiful natural backdrop. They instantly fell in love with the idea of a Preserve at Dundee wedding. During a walk-through of the venue, among the beauty of the landscape, Ali & Stewart felt as if they were a world. But, in all reality, their venue was conveniently just 20 miles outside the city.
Located in Hanover County, the Preserve at Dundee offers weddings in a historic setting with awe-inspiring views. The venue hosts weddings year-round with both peak (April through October) to non-peak (November through March) pricing. Weddings at the Preserve at Dundee include exclusive use of the grounds from 9 am to 11 pm. They also offer a host of amenities. This includes access to two getting-ready suites, tables, chairs, lighting, and multiple locations on the property for your wedding photography experience. The venue also offers additional add-ons such as a four-hour rehearsal dinner, use of a classic Land Rover for your wedding photos, lawn games, and a fire pit for your reception celebration.
The Preserve at Dundee Photos
When planning their Preserve at Dundee wedding, Ali and Stewart kept things chic and classic. Their color palette was black and white and incorporated creamy colored florals to add a sense of whimsy and romance to their wedding day. For Ali and Stewart, their biggest focus was on spending their day celebrating with their friends and family beside them. Their guests enjoyed a raw bar with fresh-shucked oysters and a tented reception celebration with live music. As the evening celebration began to heat up, Ali changed into a short reception dress accented with sparkle, tulle, and bows draped over her shoulders. She paired this with fun white cowboy boots and she and Stewart hit the dance floor together as husband and wife. You can see some of my favorite details from their Preserve at Dundee wedding, through the photos below.
I’m Nicki, a Charlottesville, Richmond, and DC area wedding photographer who captures the joy-filled moments of my couple’s wedding days. To learn more about working with me, you can find my experience page here.
CREATIVE TEAM
Richmond Wedding Photographer | Nicki Metcalf Photography
Venue | The Preserve at Dundee
Florals | Cross Creek Nursery
Rentals | Clements Tent Rentals
Catering | Bryan Oliff
Makeup | Jordan Simpson
Hair | Kelly Tucket
Invitation Suite | Papeterie