Wishing someone a happy birthday in English
What to say when surprising someone with a cake and a birthday gift.
Full script
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
Say this for the birthday moment
make a wish = silently ask for something; also Happy birthday to you!
Say this before they blow
You shouldn't have! = polite surprise; not blame
A polite way to give a gift
a little something = a small thoughtful gift
Say this when giving a gift
Go ahead! = yes, open it; in some places people open gifts right away
Quick answers
Walk in holding the cake: what to say in English
Say “Happy birthday! Make a wish!” — say this for the birthday moment. make a wish = silently ask for something; also Happy birthday to you!
Maya “You shouldn't have”: what to say in English
Say “Now blow out the candles!” — say this before they blow. You shouldn't have! = polite surprise; not blame.
Hand over the gift box: what to say in English
Say “Here's a little something for you.” — a polite way to give a gift. a little something = a small thoughtful gift.
Maya “Can I open it”: what to say in English
Say “I hope you like it.” — say this when giving a gift. Go ahead! = yes, open it; in some places people open gifts right away.