Funerals
Choosing flowers along with everything else for a funeral can be a stressful time but it does not have to be. If you have the luxury of time and are anticipating a funeral in the near future, check out the local florists in your area for prices and types of arrangements traditionally used. After the sticker shock, also go to your local chain food store. If they have a floral department chances are that they also do funeral work even though they do not advertise it. I'm sure comparable items will be offered at more affordable prices. If you find your local store does not offer this service, check out other stores as all stores are not equal. Sometimes one store in the same chain may not have a qualified floral designer to perform this service whereas another south of town does. In a largely populated area, it should be no problem.
The drawback in using a chain food store florist is that they customarily do not deliver, therefore you must find a way to get the flowers to the funeral home. You can try to negotiate a delivery with the store or find someone in the family or a friend that would be willing to pick them up and deliver them. If this may be a problem I would check with the florist prior to placing an order. The independent florists will of course deliver flowers as it is built in the cost.
The arrangement are usually large and special care must be taken to support any upright arrangements, so that they do not tip over while driving. That can be disastrous. A large vehicle will also help.
Prices
Prices will vary depending on the size of the arrangement and types of flowers used. For example: Carnations and mums are less expensive than roses , orchids or any other specialty flowers.
Time
Because flowers are a perishable product most florist do not keep a large inventory. Try to give them enough lead time so that they can order any necessary supplies and flowers. It takes at least one day to place the order with the wholesaler in order to receive the flowers the next day. The sooner the better for everyone.
Alternatives
If you are on a budget, one way is to downsize. The styles of arrangements can vary. Be creative, work with your florist. I have seen people buy a dozen roses. Have them arranged into a presentation bouquet to lay on top of the casket. A basket filled with potted and blooming plants can be used as side arrangements. The family will have the option of taking them home as a memento.
Presentation bouquet to lay on top of the casket.