Some love stories arrive all at once, but Kate and Layton’s grew slowly and intentionally, the way the sweetest prairie love stories usually do. They met in stats class during their university years, two people unknowingly sitting beside the person they would eventually build a life with. Fast-forward to their Country Acres wedding in Maclean, Saskatchewan, where that quiet, steady love finally bloomed into something absolutely breathtaking.

The whole day carried this warm, rustic, joy-filled energy. The morning was full of laughter and soft excitement that floated through every getting-ready room. Kate glowed as she got ready with her girls, and every time her name came up, Layton’s whole face softened in that unmistakable “I am marrying my best friend today” way. Their first look felt like time paused just for them. No pressure, no posing, just two people taking in the moment and letting it wash over them. As a Saskatchewan wedding photographer, those are the moments I live for, the ones that feel real and full of heart.

Their ceremony was something truly magical. Instead of choosing a traditional setting, Kate and her family created an intimate woodland ceremony tucked beneath the trees at Country Acres. It felt like stepping into a quiet little world made just for them. Wooden textures, soft florals, and sunlight drifting through the branches gave the whole space a rustic, romantic charm that looked like it belonged in a storybook. Every detail felt intentional, handcrafted, and full of love.

And then the florals. Every bouquet and floral element was created by Kate and her mom, which made the day feel even more meaningful. It was such a beautiful reflection of their bond. Instead of tossing her bouquet, Kate gifted it to her mom in the sweetest dedication. It was quiet and emotional and had the entire ceremony space full of tears. It is one of the most heartfelt moments I have ever witnessed at a wedding and such a beautiful alternative to the traditional bouquet toss.

As evening arrived, golden hour rolled in with that classic Saskatchewan glow. Warm light stretched across the fields, the air stilled, and everything turned soft and dreamy. We wandered the property chasing the last bits of sunlight, capturing candid, unposed moments that felt like scenes from a movie. The way they laugh together, the way they melt into each other, the way they exist so comfortably as a pair made photographing them effortless. This is the heart of wedding photography for me, telling a story through all the in-between moments.

Every piece of their day felt personal and intentional, from the woodland ceremony to the handcrafted florals to the way their friends and family poured into the day. And now, having become such good friends since their wedding, reflecting on it feels even more special. Their love is steady, joyful, genuine, and full of so much possibility. This Country Acres wedding reminded me exactly why I adore capturing Saskatchewan weddings. They feel real and emotional and deeply tied to the people who make them beautiful.

Huge love to the amazing team who helped bring this day to life. Makeup by Kas, Mane Character by Roma, the breathtaking Country Acres venue in MacLean, SK, and of course Kate, her mom, and their family for creating such heartfelt florals and decor.

xoxo, Chay

Here is a little peek into their gallery: