Sudbury celebrant Ruth Salisbury-Higgs encourages people to follow their dreams after wedding industry award nomination

An independent Sudbury wedding celebrant has set her sights on a top industry award, after reaching the east of England final.

Ceremonies by Ruth has been shortlisted as a regional finalist for The Wedding Industry Awards (TWIA) 2025, in the highly-competitive celebrant category.

It comes just three years after the business was founded by Ruth Salisbury-Higgs, at the age of 64.

This year, she has already won the best celebrant accolade at the 2024 Essex Wedding Awards, having conducted 24 wedding ceremonies.

Ruth said recognition of this year’s TWIA Awards would send a message to others that they were never too old to start a successful business.

“After just three years as a celebrant, entering my business into The Wedding Industry Awards 2025 felt like a bold, courageous step,” said Ruth.

“It’s never easy to put yourself out there, but I passionately believe in the work I do and the impact it has.

“Despite being relatively new to the industry, I felt it was the right time to showcase my business and demonstrate my passion for creating uniquely meaningful ceremonies.

“I launched my celebrant business at the tender age of 64, proving age is not a barrier but can be an asset, bringing experience and wisdom.

“This recognition would highlight that it’s never too late to follow your passion and build something meaningful.”

The winners of the regional awards will be announced in November, based on feedback from clients and the verdicts of a judging panel.

They will then advance to the national final, taking place in January.

Awards founder Damian Bailey said: “Our awards are unique as they are voted by recent wedding couples and it’s not the total number of votes that companies receive that leads to success.

“Instead, we focus on the quality of the feedback they get from eligible couples.”