How to organise an office Secret Santa
Last updated:
1. Set the budget
Agree a maximum amount before any draw. Between €5 and €15 usually works for small and medium teams; in a large group a lower limit takes the pressure off. Put the amount in the invitation and repeat it near the date of the exchange.
2. Choose the date and format
Fix the gift exchange for a set date, ideally in the last working week before Christmas. It can be a lunch, a coffee or a short moment in the kitchen.
For a remote team, set a deadline for gifts to arrive by post, or choose digital gifts such as a voucher or gift card.
3. Draw without paper slips
Collect the names and use the Secret Santa generator: each person gets a private link and finds out for themselves who they are giving to. Because the organiser cannot see who drew whom, the organiser can take part too.
4. Simple rules avoid misunderstandings
- The same maximum value and delivery date for everyone.
- Neutral gifts: avoid personal, health or religious topics.
- Anyone who cannot take part says so before the draw, never after.
- If someone is absent on the day, the gift is handed over on the next working day.
5. Taking part is voluntary
Joining should always be optional. Anyone who prefers to stay out does so without explanations, and the draw only includes those who agreed.
6. What if someone loses their link?
The organiser just resends the same link to that person. Nobody draws themselves, because the draw forms a circle in which each person gives to the next.
Contact
Questions or requests about this document: contacto@amigo-secreto.pt