I love helping people find the perfect words for any occasion—from relationship advice to inspirational messages.
Oops—did you miss someone's birthday? Find a funny message to send them and wish them a very late and very happy birthday anyway!
• Life is all about forgiving and forgetting. I forgot your birthday, and you can forgive me. How perfect.
• Did you know that you look really hot when you are in a forgiving mood? Belated happy birthday! xoxo
• I know I forgot your birthday, but I also know that you are a sucker for gifts. So here you go: an expensive watch. Happy birthday, mate! Hope we are cool.
• If you had to accept a bribe to forgive someone, what would it be? Tell me quick, because I need to wish you a late happy birthday.
• I never forgot your birthday, buddy. I just wanted to annoy you a little bit by sending my wishes a tad later. Belated happy birthday.
• This wish may be coming in a bit late, but it does not mean that you are excused from giving another party just for me.
• No matter what I do, it will never change the fact that I forgot your birthday. So get over it. Belated happy birthday!
• The best quality of a cool friend like you is that they never get angry when someone forgets to send them good wishes on their birthday.
• Surprise! I haven't forgotten your birthday. Belated wishes to you, my dear friend.
• Shakespeare said, "What's in a name?" I say, "What's in a date?" Happy birthday!
• Had I known you were such a difficult person to please, I would have never forgotten your birthday.
• Why should I be sorry about not wishing you a happy birthday? You saved some money by treating one less person, didn't you? Belated happy birthday!
• I don't like the feeling of missing your birthday, so here's a belated birthday card and, to be safe, one for next year, too. Happy birthday in advance.
• Forgetfulness is contagious, and with friends like you, no wonder I missed your birthday.
• I deliberately did not want to add to the chaos of birthday wishes that you would have received on your birthday. Because I did not want to be yet another friend reminding you how old you are getting. Better late than never. Belated happy birthday!
• I bet no one except me came to wish you a belated happy birthday. Don't thank me; that's what friends are for.
• Rock stars are never on time, and that's why I am fashionably late. Belated happy birthday.
• I have hurt you by missing your birthday, but I am sure the wounds will heal once you see the gifts I've got for you. Happy birthday!
• I forgot your birthday. So what? There's always a next time, next year. 'Til then, belated happy birthday.
• I got you a birthday card, an e-card, a gift, some flowers, chocolates, and your favorite bottle of red. What more could you ask for? Now stop complaining and please forgive me for forgetting your birthday. Happy birthday, mate!
• Stop whining about how I forgot your birthday. Be a man; let's have a beer to celebrate.
• There is really no point in wishing someone happy birthday after their birthday has gone by. But, being the loyal friend that I am, here's a belated birthday wish just for you. Cheers!
• I hope you did not feel bad about how I missed your birthday, because I don't feel guilty, either. Belated happy birthday, darling!
• Life has a habit of throwing curve balls at you. This is mine to you: Belated happy birthday!
• The best part of having friends like me is that you get to celebrate your birthday even when it is not. Belated happy birthday, dude! Let's go grab some drinks.
• I am not great with apologies. Belated happy birthday.
• You can always count on a friend like me, except on birthdays. Cheers!
• I don't mean to be cocky, but the kind of gift I've got for you leaves no room for you to complain about how I have missed you birthday. Enjoy!
• I forgot to send you my best wishes on your birthday last year. Gotta keep the tradition alive. Belated happy birthday, buddy!
• Sorry I missed out on your special day. This is the only time you will see me apologize and be nice to you at the same time for one whole day. Make the most of it.
• As I did not wish you a happy birthday on the day of your birthday, I won't mind if you forget to wish me on mine next year. So we're even now. Wishing you a belated, yet very happy, birthday.
• I spent days trying to write the perfect message for your birthday card, but I could not come up with anything creative in time. This is all I got—belated happy birthday!
• Your best friend is suffering in guilt-fueled pain because she forgot your birthday. Be a good friend and put her out of pain by giving her a nice hug and taking her out for dinner.
• You are so difficult to buy gifts for. I am late because I just couldn't find a gift that you would like. Belated happy birthday!
• Sorry I missed your birthday. I promise it will not happen again this year.
• A belated birthday wish calls for a belated birthday party. So where are we celebrating?
• With age comes patience. Thanks for waiting for my belated birthday wish.
• I got abducted by aliens, but I managed to run away when they were taking a nap. Belated happy birthday!
• Birthday messages generally carry with them a lot of love, warmth, and feelings. This one comes with a $500 gift card. Belated wishes don't seem so bad now, do they?
• Your dog must have eaten the birthday card I sent to you yesterday. Wishing you a belated happy birthday.
• If you really wanted me to wish you happy birthday on time, you would have invited me to your party.
• Surprise! I haven't forgotten your birthday. Belated wishes for you, my dear friend.
• I didn't send you good wishes on your birthday because I did not want other people to be jealous of my gift.
• Oops, I am late. At least I did not forget it altogether. Belated happy birthday!
• Would you rather have a best friend who lies to you, or one who doesn't? Assuming that you like the latter, I have to admit that I genuinely forgot your birthday. Belated happy birthday, buddy!
• I feel so bad about forgetting your birthday. Aren't you going to do something to make me feel nice?
• I have punished my calendar for not reminding me of your birthday on time. What more do you want me to do?
• You are cool, good-looking, and an awesome person to hang out with. Did I mention that you are forgiving, too? Belated happy birthday, bestie!
• You stole my pencil when we were in 2nd grade. I am late in wishing you a happy birthday. We are even now.
Rhonda Calhoun on March 17, 2022:
I forgot to send my best friend which is a guy a Happy birthday yesterday from me can you can write me something funny or something to send to him
Judith on February 14, 2022:
lol...with age comes health issues, some tolerable some not..
Denny on August 05, 2022:
This is a question .can anyone tell me a good reason to wish late birthday
I was out of station on her birthday so I couldn't wish .
But now I've to wish with that reason
You may suggest which one is best wish
Sakina Nasir from Kuwait on September 23, 2022:
Great hub! Enjoyed reading it 🙂 God bless you !
Yves on February 27, 2022:
I love #48 & 49. They're hilarious. Now you've got me thinking about whether I can top just one of your 50 excuses. But you know, I don't think I can. These excuses are just too cute. Thanks for making me laugh. Voting funny!
Funom Theophilus Makama from Europe on October 10, 2022:
A very wonderful concept. Nice and funny at the same time. Great share
Happy birthday. Wish I could be with you.
Birthday wishes for best friends.
Birthday cards for friends are an excellent opportunity to remind your best friends how much they mean to you. Some meaningful approaches including thanking them, reminiscing on great times you’ve shared in the past year, praising their accomplishments, or letting them what about them you love most. Start with our ideas below, and add any personal details to it to make it extra special.
• “Can’t imagine my life without you. Today, I’m overjoyed to celebrate your existence. Happy birthday, friend.”
• “Happy birthday, friend. Everyday I am grateful to have you in my life. Let today be another reminder that you’re the best. Love you.”
• “For someone who deserves the world – hope your day is full of joy, laughter, friendship, and your favorite type of cake.”
• “For this next year, I wish for all your wildest dreams to come true. After all, you yourself are a gift to earth, so you deserve the best. Happy birthday.”
• “If it weren’t for you, I would never have become the person I am today. Thank you for being a best friend, a role model, a shoulder to cry on, and a partner in crime. And most important of all, happy birthday.”
• “Sometimes life gets tough, but I always rest assured that I can make it over any obstacle in my way with you in my life. Thanks for being the best friend the world has to offer, happy birthday.”
• “Throughout my life you have showered me with love, laughter, and support. Thank you for always giving me your all. I do my best always to return the favor. Happy birthday, friend.”
• “Thank you for always providing me with hope, encouragement, joy, and support. You are the best, and I hope that your birthday is as unforgettable as you are.”
• “Everyday I learn something new from your kindness, your compassion, and your sheer brilliance. Here’s to another year of invaluable life lessons. Happy birthday, friend.”
• “I don’t know how I got so lucky to have a best friend like you. Enjoy your cake, your party and your presents today but remember that your friendship is the greatest gift of all.”
• “Friend, it’s been nothing short of amazing to see what you’ve accomplished in the past year. Can’t wait to see what wondrous things the next year holds for you. Happy birthday.”
• “Thank you for being you. You are the best person I know. Happiest of birthdays.”
• “Each moment that we’ve spent together has been a memorable one. Looking forward to many more memories in the years to come. Happy birthday.”
• “Birthdays come around every year, but friends like you only come once in a lifetime. I’m so grateful for you. Cheers to the best year yet.”
• “There’s no one on Earth I’d rather celebrate more than you. Let’s eat, drink, and be merry in your honor.”
Happy birthday messages for acquaintances.
Birthday messages are always appreciated when they’re written with kindness. Whether this card is for a new friend, a distant one, or anyone in between, take a moment to show them what they mean to you.
• “Wishing you a day filled with happiness, hugs, and delicious cake. Happy birthday.”
• “It’s time to celebrate your special day. You’ve earned it, and you deserve it. Happy birthday.”
• “Birthdays remind us of who we are and what we’ve done – thanks for being an amazing role model to myself and for many others. Sending you love on this birthday.”
• “I hope that today’s wishes, smiles and heartfelt words turn into many amazing memories. You deserve all the best, happy birthday.”
• “There are a lot of good people out there in the world, but today we recognize YOU as being one of the best. Happy birthday.”
• “You stepped into my life at the best possible time. So glad I can celebrate with you on this special day. Happy birthday.”
• “An amazing friend deserves an amazing day. Hope it’s the best from start to finish.”
• “On this wonderful day, I wish you the best that the world has to offer. Happy birthday.”
• “Wishing you a wonderful birthday and a fantastic year ahead. Thanks for being such a great friend.”
• “Going old happens. Growing up is a choice. Happy birthday.”
• “Just wanted to take this opportunity to let you know I appreciate your friendship so much. Can’t wait to see what the next year has in store for both you and our friendship. Enjoy your day.”
• “Happy birthday. Hope all of your wishes come true, and then some.”
• “Distance may keep us apart, but it could never get in the way of me wishing you the happiest of birthdays. Thanks for being my friend over the years through it all. Hope this year is the best.”
• “Another year around the sun. Take time to reflect on all your accomplishments, and get excited about all the great things to come. Can’t wait to support you through it all. Happy birthday.”
• “Whatever it is you wish for on this special day, know that you deserve it. Hope this birthday is the best yet.”
Funny happy birthday messages.
A birthday is a day that should be full of joy, so laughter is heavily encouraged. Keep your friend’s sense of humor in mind as you compose your fun-filled greeting.
• “Best friend, we’ve been through it all. We’ve celebrated birthdays together from our diaper days as kids, and I look forward to our diaper days as adults. Let’s live it up while we’re young.”
• “Like a fine wine, we get better with age. Or maybe we just feel better about our age with a little bit of wine.”
• “Your birthday is a painful reminder of how old I’m getting. At least we’re in it together.”
• “Happy birthday to someone who is smart, talented, pretty, creative, and fabulous. I love that we’re so much alike.”
• “It is scientifically proven that people who have more birthdays live longer. Congrats on your success.”
• “At least you’re not as old as you will be next year. Happy birthday.”
• “Here’s to hoping all your candles this year don’t set off the fire alarm. Your birthday is gonna be lit.”
• “If things really do get better with age, then you’re nearing perfection. I bet it feels as good as it looks. Happy birthday.”
• “For your birthday, how about a fruit salad instead of cake? A fruit salad with mostly grapes – no, all grapes. Fermented grapes. Wine it is.”
• “I can barely keep up with everyone’s birthdays these days, but you better believe I’d never forget yours. Happy birthday to the best friend there is.”
• “A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, the best friend in the world was born. Happy birthday.”
• “Another birthday, another year older. Don’t you think it’s about time we started to act our age? Well, I know exactly what you’ll say. Next year. Happy birthday.”
• “You’re not old. You’re just old enough to know better but not old enough to care. Happy birthday.”
• “Another year to prove that older doesn’t really mean wiser. Happy birthday.”
• “When I say, ‘have a happy birthday’, you better freaking do it.”
Happy birthday quotes for friends.
When the right words are hard to find, there’s no shame in taking inspiration from someone or something else. Enjoy our hand-picked quotes below to share with mom on her special day.
• “The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.” - Oprah Winfrey
• “Today you are you. That is truer than true. There is no one alive who is you-er than you.” - Dr. Seuss
• “You can be gorgeous at 30, charming at 40, and irresistible for the rest of your life.” - Coco Chanel
• “I decided if you’re lucky enough to be alive, you should use each birthday to celebrate what your life is about.” - Mary Steenburgen
• “Grow old along with me. The best is yet to be.” - Robert Browning
• “You take away all the other luxuries in life, and if you can make someone smile and laugh, you have given the most special gift: happiness.” - Brad Garrett
• “When someone asks if you’d like cake or pie, why not say you want cake and pie?” - Lisa Loeb
• “With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come.” - William Shakespeare
• “Youth is happy because it has the ability to see beauty. Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.” - Franz Kafka
• “Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” – Marcel Proust
• “Truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget.” – Unknown
• “Birthdays are nature’s way of telling you to eat more cake.” - Jo Brand
• “Old age is like everything else. To make a success of it, you’ve got to start young.” - Fred Astaire
• “Cakes are special. Every birthday, every celebration ends with something sweet, a cake, and people remember. It’s all about the memories.” - Buddy Valastro
• “There are two great days in a person’s life - the day we are born, and the day we discover why.” - William Barclay
How to make birthday cards with Adobe Spark.
Pick a size and shape.
Square or rectangular, high-definition, or only a tiny thumbnail; when you make a birthday card, it can be whatever size and shape you want.
Choose a theme.
You can choose from various layouts, designs, and color schemes, and your choice is never set in stone. Experiment with several and see how your message looks in different graphic presentations.
Personalize with images.
Images are at the heart of Adobe, and we created Adobe Spark Post so you can let them speak for you in the clearest possible way. Upload your photos or choose from our extensive selection of online images and graphics.
Add birthday messages.
Type the words you want to say and see how different fonts transform their message. Choose the typography style from our extensive selection that expresses your sentiments most clearly.
Download, share, or print.
Download and print out your design on a card or share it as an eye-catching post on social media. You can even send the file to a professional printer and have it made up as a banner to hang for the surprise party.
Light the candles with Adobe Spark.
Celebrating someone’s birthday is all about singing praise. Adobe Spark lets you create a custom-tailored message that will make your recipient feel special and honored. Whether the occasion is bittersweet and quiet or a party that rocks out in sheer exuberance, our designs convey the birthday message that hits exactly the right note. Our templates work for personal greetings, formal wishes, or even for group signing. Whatever special message you want to deliver, Adobe Spark is here to make it happen.
Share your Adobe Spark Post birthday card.
Adobe Spark Post makes it easy to design and share your birthday greeting so that it sends the most joy possible. Download and print out your design on a card, or share it as an eye-catching post on social media. If you like to think big, send your design to a professional printer to hang as a banner at the birthday party or hand out party favors. However you present it, your card will become a cherished keepsake in its own right to commemorate the joyous day.