Guide
How to run an office Secret Santa
A work gift exchange should be easy to join, easy to skip, and cheap enough that nobody feels pressured. Here's a setup that works for teams of 5 or 500.
1. Make it opt-in
Ask who wants to join instead of signing up the whole office. Some people don't celebrate, are watching their money, or would just rather not. A short message works: "We're doing a Secret Santa, $20 limit, swap on the 19th. Reply if you're in."
2. Keep the budget low and clear
$15 to $25 is the normal range for offices. Put the number in the invite. Managers who join should stick to the same limit, so gifts don't feel unequal.
3. Draw names online and keep it private
Add everyone who opted in, then share one group link in your team chat or email. Each person taps their own name and sees only their match. For work groups, turn on "require an email code". Each person then confirms their work email with a 6-digit code before they can see their page, so nobody can peek at a coworker's match.
4. Use wish lists
Coworkers often don't know each other well. A short wish list on each person's page removes the guessing. Even "I like coffee and anything for my desk" helps.
5. Pick a swap that fits your team
- In the office: pile gifts in one spot and hand them out at lunch.
- Remote team: ship gifts to home addresses, then open them together on a video call. See virtual Secret Santa.
- Mixed: set the swap date late enough that shipped gifts arrive in time.
Gifts that are safe for work
Stick to things anyone can use: a good mug or tumbler, snacks, a desk plant, a phone stand, a nice notebook, or a cozy blanket. Skip anything too personal, alcohol unless you know the person drinks, and joke gifts that could embarrass someone. Browse gift ideas for coworkers or gifts under $25.
Common questions
What is a good budget for an office Secret Santa?
Most offices pick $15 to $25. Keep it the same for everyone, including managers.
Should the boss join the office Secret Santa?
They can, at the same spending limit as everyone else. Some managers skip the exchange and buy a small treat for the whole team instead.
How do we keep matches private at work?
Use PullAName's group link so each person sees only their own match, and turn on the email code option so only the real person can open their page.
Draw names for free
Set up your group in about a minute. No sign-up. Everyone gets a private page with their match and wish list.
Start a draw