From Heartland to Happiness: Amy Fleming (Amber Marshall) Ties the Knot in Dream Ranch Wedding

From Amy Fleming to Mrs. Turner: A Fairytale Come True

For fans of CBC's long-running hit drama, Heartland, it feels like we've watched Amy Fleming grow up right before our eyes. Now, in a beautiful real-life parallel, the actress who embodies the beloved horse whisperer, 25-year-old Amber Marshall, has said "I do!" Before her character even walks down the aisle on screen, Amber has married her long-time love, 26-year-old photographer Shawn Turner.

The Dream Ranch Venue: Where Heartland Meets "I Do"

Forget fancy ballrooms – Amber and Shawn's wedding was pure rustic romance, hosted at their own stunning ranch near High River, Alberta. If that location sounds familiar, it's because High River is also the filming location for Heartland! Surrounded by family, friends, and many familiar faces from the Heartland cast and crew, the couple celebrated their love in a setting that perfectly reflected their passion for animals and the equestrian lifestyle. In fact, their horses were front and center, a sweet nod to how Amber and Shawn's story began – at a horse show.

Amber shared with Hello! Magazine that High River holds a special significance for her, being both her on-screen and real-life home, making their ranch the only place they could imagine saying their vows.

A Wedding as Personal as it Gets

DIY Details & Family Love: Crafting the Perfect Day

"I'm a homebody, and so is Shawn," Amber explained, reflecting on their decision to marry at home. Taking on the role of their own wedding planners, Amber, originally from London, Ontario, found the process surprisingly enjoyable and personal. With the help of loved ones, their wedding day was filled with thoughtful, handcrafted details. One of the most meaningful? The altar itself, lovingly built by Shawn – "the most beautiful memento of our day," Amber fondly recalled.

Riding into Forever: Amber's Grand Entrance on Horseback

This handcrafted altar became the focal point for Amber's favorite moment: her breathtaking entrance. Dressed in a gorgeous strapless gown by Private Label by G, and carrying a delicate lilac bouquet created by her grandmother, Amber made a spectacular arrival riding sidesaddle on her horse, Hawk. Adding to the emotion, her father, who had just learned to handle Hawk, proudly held the reins. Despite her years in the spotlight, Amber admitted that exchanging vows with Shawn in front of 150 loved ones brought a completely new and profound excitement. "I was emotional," she said, "I kept thinking, 'I can't believe this is real!'"

Celebrating Under the Alberta Sky

Reception Fun with Family (On-Screen & Off!)

Their exit was just as memorable as their entrance! After their first kiss as husband and wife, Amber and Shawn hopped back on their horses and galloped towards the reception tents, a truly spectacular (if slightly speedy!) getaway. "The applause made the horses a bit nervous, so they took off a little quicker than planned," Amber laughed.

Under the expansive white tents, guests celebrated the newlyweds, enjoying a delicious meal catered by the same talented team who cater for Heartland. The atmosphere was warm and inclusive, with Amber's on-screen and off-screen families mingling joyously.

Heartfelt Toasts and Laid-Back Vibes

The presence of her Heartland co-stars, like Michelle Morgan and Chris Potter, was particularly special for Amber. After six years on the show, they've become like family. "I don't have a sister in real life, but having Michelle there, who plays my sister on the show, was incredibly important to me," Amber shared.

Staying true to their relaxed personalities, Amber and Shawn wanted their guests to feel completely comfortable. The dress code was casual, with many opting for jeans and boots or full western wear. "No stiff formal wear or high heels were required; just pure enjoyment," Amber emphasized. The party kicked off with Amber and Shawn's first dance to Garrett Hedlund's “Timing is Everything”
, followed by heartfelt speeches, including a toast from Amber's on-screen dad, Chris Potter, joined by the close-knit Heartland cast.

Happily Ever After... Begins Now!

Honeymoon on Hold, Love in Full Bloom

With a new season of Heartland underway, Amber and Shawn are putting their honeymoon on hold for now. "He has a lot on his plate, just like me," Amber explained, "so we're making adjustments accordingly."

A Real-Life Fairytale for Heartland's Sweetheart

Regardless of what the future holds for Amy Fleming, Amber Marshall's real-life love story is just beginning – a beautiful, authentic ranch romance as heartwarming as Heartland itself.

Photos: José Paulo MPA