Their first meeting, according to Denise, included a question from Sammy’s friend: “Do you want me to get her number for you?” To which Sammy replied: “No. I can get it myself.” But he didn’t.

However, they still became a couple shortly afterward. Inseparable. Even though they’ve actually spent the majority of their relationship apart — Denise in Florida, completing her graduate work, Sammy in their native New York City. There have been a lot of Skype dates and flights to visit each other — but that will all be over in just a couple more months, after these two tie the knot at the lovely Highland Manor in April.

People this happy together definitely belong together. Here’s to always being together, when you get the chance to fuss at each other over which end of the toothpaste tube you should squeeze from. Because that means, at least, you’re together.Since Sammy spends all his time in a big city, he wanted their engagement session to take place in a slice of real Florida, the kind of Florida tourists don’t usually see. So we went exploring along The Loop on one of those absolutely beautiful winter days that make me fully understand why snowbirds flock here. I asked Denise and Sammy to keep an eye out for alligators, but they were all in hiding that afternoon. Which was strange — the weather was incredible. So was the glowy sunlight, and so was the couldn’t-stop-giggling couple.As gorgeous as things were already, we all knew we were waiting for the main show — the sunset over the marsh, which was what drew Denise and Sammy to this location in the first place. It did not disappoint!All this smiling, all this laughing — I loved it, but Denise said she’s worried they’ll both laugh right through their wedding ceremony! Well, it’s not going to be a problem if you two look this good then. Laughing clearly looks good on you!Stunning ring, right?! I absolutely loved Denise’s engagement ring — the first cushion cut engagement ring we’ve ever had the pleasure of photographing.After a quick outfit change — to Sammy’s preferred uniform of choice — Denise and Sammy came back. To, you know, just another incredible Florida sunset.It probably goes without saying . . . but . . . Denise and Sammy, you two looked amazing!
If you want to see even more, check out Denise and Sammy’s slideshow!
Denise and Sammy, thank you so much for meeting up with us in Ormond Beach for this great engagement session! I hope you had as much fun as Danny and I did! And I think if your wedding is even half as awesome, we’re all in for a real treat in a couple months!

~ Laura

Hairstyling and makeup: Jacquin Figueroa Morton