Office Secret Santa: how to organize one at work

Set it up so everyone feels comfortable

• Make it opt-in. Invite people in one message and let them join privately. Don't announce who hasn't signed up.
• Keep the budget modest and equal. A cap of £10 to £20 avoids hardship and one-upmanship.
• Choose a reveal that suits the team. A team meeting, a lunch, or a shared channel post for remote staff.
• Agree what's out of bounds. No alcohol, no jokes about appearance, and nothing that would be awkward to receive from a colleague.

A one-week plan

1. Monday: post the rules, budget and a sign-up link or list.
2. Wednesday: close sign-ups and draw the names. Put the match link in the team chat.
3. Thursday: remind everyone to add a short wishlist.
4. Following week: buy, wrap, and reveal on the agreed day.

Working remotely or across offices

• Use wishlists so people can order gifts online without asking around.
• Set a delivery deadline a few days before the reveal.
• Consider digital gifts, such as an e-book or a coffee voucher, for people in different countries.

Run the draw without a spreadsheet

With the Secret Santa generator you add the names, draw once, and share a single link. Each person opens it, chooses their name and enters a PIN to see their match. Nobody else can see it, not even on a shared screen. If someone joins late or leaves, you can update the draw without starting over.

Need basics first? Read the general Secret Santa rules, or browse gift ideas by budget.