There’s something truly special about photographing a couple who just clicks—whose energy is infectious and whose story makes you smile the whole drive home. That’s exactly what it felt like spending a summer evening with Dan and Michael during their engagement session at Historic Smithville Mansion in Eastampton NJ.

Historic Smithville Engagement Session | How They Met

Dan and Michael’s story began in the most modern way—over text. But their first in-person date was anything but ordinary. After chatting for just a couple of days, they met up for drinks at a Texas Road House and ended up closing the place down.

“We both connected instantly and really enjoyed each other’s sense of humor,” Michael shared. That first night set the tone for their relationship: easy, natural, and full of laughter.

Historic Smithville Engagement Session | The Proposal

The proposal? Let’s just say it had major surprise factor. Dan had been planning to propose for almost a year but chose to do it during a spontaneous moment that turned into one of the most memorable nights of their lives.

“Dan proposed to me after just 1 month of us living together! He couldn’t wait any longer,” Michael said. “He chose a spontaneous moment at a house party with a bunch of our friends and totally blew everyone away that night. Everyone was surprised, and I had never been happier.”

Historic Smithville Engagement Session | The Upcoming Wedding

Dan and Michael are tying the knot in May 2026 at Penn Oaks Golf Club, and I truly can’t wait for their wedding day. If their engagement session was any indication, it’s going to be filled with love, laughter, and an energy that’s completely their own.

To couples currently planning their engagement session—if you’re looking for a relaxed, heartfelt experience with plenty of laughs and authentic moments, I’d love to be part of it. Reach out to learn more about engagement photography—I’d be thrilled to help tell your story next.

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Gen Palmer is a South Jersey wedding photographer who documents authentic photography for real couples. Gen documents weddings around South New Jersey and Philadelphia.

Gen loves working with couples who cherish relationships over things, and who value printed photographs to display and enjoy their memories every day. Sound like you? Reach out about your wedding!