How the online Secret Santa draw works
- Enter the names: one per line. Tell identical first names apart with an initial, such as “Sam R.” and “Sam T.”.
- Add exclusions: people who should not draw each other go on the same line, such as couples or siblings. A line can hold more than two names.
- Set a budget and date: both appear on everyone’s private page.
- Draw and send the links: each person gets their own link, by text, WhatsApp or email. When they open it, they see only the person they are buying for.
The organiser can take part too: just don’t click “Show result” and forward the links without opening them. Nobody needs to sign up or share an email address.
Secret Santa rules that work
- Agree on a budget: a clear limit keeps it fair and avoids awkward moments.
- Share wish lists: one or two ideas per person mean fewer gifts that end up in a drawer.
- Announce the date early: two to three weeks leave time for shipping.
- Keep the secret: reveal who drew whom at the exchange, or never.
How much should you spend?
| Group | Typical budget | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Classroom | $5–10 | Allow homemade gifts |
| Office, team | $15–25 | Neutral gifts: coffee, a notebook, a plant |
| Friends | $20–40 | Share wish lists in the group chat |
| Family | $25–50 | Run a separate draw for the kids |
| White elephant | $0–20 | Funny or regifted items, swapped in a game |
Secret Santa, Kris Kringle and White Elephant
In a classic Secret Santa, everyone secretly draws one name and buys a gift for that person. That is what this generator is built for. Kris Kringle is the name used in Australia, Ireland and parts of the US for the same idea.
A White Elephant or Yankee Swap works differently: everyone brings one wrapped gift, players take turns picking or stealing, and nobody draws names. For that, use the random number generator to set the turn order and the timer to keep the game moving.
Frequently asked questions
Can someone draw themselves?
No. The draw makes sure nobody gets their own name and everyone receives exactly one gift.
Can I stop couples from drawing each other?
Yes. Put their names on one line in the exclusions box, separated by a comma.
Where are the names stored?
Nowhere. The draw runs in your browser and the result exists only in the links. The links are encoded rather than encrypted, so the name stays hidden unless someone opens the link.
What if someone loses their link?
As long as the result page is still open, copy that person’s link again. A new draw creates a completely new set of pairs.
How many people can take part?
Three or more. There is no practical upper limit, so a whole office of 50 works fine.