Guide
Secret Santa rules for a fair, fun gift exchange
Secret Santa works best with five rules: agree on a spending limit, set an exchange date, draw names so nobody gets themselves, keep partners or housemates from drawing each other when you want that, and keep your match a secret until the gifts are opened. Sharing wishlists helps everyone buy something wanted.
Get started freeSet a clear limit
Pick one amount everyone can afford and stick to it, so nobody feels outspent.
Use exclusions
Stop couples or people who already swap gifts from drawing each other.
Share wishlists
When everyone has a list, the person who drew them can buy something they'll actually like.
How it works
- 1Invite everyone and agree on a limit and date
- 2Add exclusions, then draw names
- 3Each person sees only their own match and shops from that person's wishlist
Common questions
How much should you spend on Secret Santa?
There's no fixed rule. Pick an amount everyone in the group is comfortable with and write it down so it's clear from the start.
How do you draw names fairly?
Use a random draw that never assigns someone to themselves. An online draw also keeps matches secret, since nobody has to pull names from a hat in front of others.
Can couples be kept from drawing each other?
Yes. Add exclusions before the draw. Giftogether's gift exchanges support exclusions in any group.
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