by: Wesley Berry

She loves clothes, talking on the phone, boys, teen stars like Hillary Duff, and a great pair of vintage jeans, but will your teen girl love a gift of flowers? Absolutely! In a recent survey, flowers proved to be among the most favored gifts men and women give and receive. And, since your teen is a young woman in training, there's no doubt that she will appreciate beautiful flowers, too-especially if you customize the gift to fit her special interests.

When considering a gift of flowers for your teen, you first have to ask when it's appropriate to send her flowers. The answer: Anytime! Of course, if you prefer to give flowers on special occasions, here are some ideas:

* Her birthday. Birthdays are an obvious choice, but think about having them delivered at a time of day when she'll garner some special attention (unless she's the shy type who might be embarrassed by this). For example, have the flowers sent to school. Of course, it's a good idea to call the school first and find out if they have any special policies concerning gift deliveries. Include a small gift with the flowers, such as a CD by her favorite band.

* For a part awarded in the school play. If your teen is a drama queen and she's just gotten her first big part in a school play, she'll undoubtedly appreciate the fact that you think it's as big a deal as she does. Send her some flowers to let her know you're excited for her. You might even consider asking your florist to use the play as a theme. If she's been given the role of Dorothy in "The Wizard of Oz," ruby red flowers tied in a blue checked ribbon reminiscent of Dorothy's ruby slippers and checkered dress would be a great choice.

* When she gets her driver's license. Getting her driver's license is one of the biggest events in a teen's life. Help her celebrate with a gift of flowers! Ask your florist to add a car related item to the arrangement. Perhaps a matchbox car, a pair of sunglasses for driving, or driving gloves. Or, if you're planning to give your teen a car of her own, deliver the keys with a beautiful bouquet of her favorite flowers.

* For a victory in a big competition. If your teen is into sports or a member of an academic team, send her flowers after a big win to let her know that her success is important to you, too. If she's on the basketball team, ask the florist to include a mini basketball, or some other item related to the sport. If she's on the school's debate team, have a toy microphone included in the arrangement, or write her a special note on index cards like the ones she uses during the competition.

Regardless of the occasion you choose, the fact that you took the time to recognize some special achievement or big day will thrill your teen. Flowers make a person feel special and they're a very easy way to let your teen know how much she means to you.