Eleanor Sterling is an RHS Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medalist with a background in structural engineering. With over 18 years of experience, she specializes in transforming Grade I listed buildings and marquees into immersive floral environments. She teaches the physics of hanging installations and safe rigging.
Eleanor Sterling bridges the gap between delicate artistry and rigorous structural engineering, a necessity for the high-stakes world of luxury UK events. Originally trained as a set designer before pivoting to floristry, she possesses a unique understanding of spatial dynamics and load-bearing mechanics. Her career has seen her lead floral teams for prestigious events at venues like Blenheim Palace and The Savoy, where strict safety regulations regarding marquee poles and rigging points are paramount. Eleanor is an expert in 'gravity-defying' designs, mastering the use of heavy-gauge wire armatures, pulley systems, and water-tube hydration to create floating floral clouds that remain fresh for 48 hours. She writes to demystify the complex logistics of wedding floristry, covering everything from the 30% stem estimation rule to the intricate public liability insurance required for overhead installations. Her guidance is essential for florists looking to scale up from bouquets to architectural interventions without compromising safety or the integrity of historic venues.