Quick Answer
Playing Secret Santa online with Elfster takes about 5 minutes to set up: create a free exchange, invite participants, and let Elfster handle the name draw, notifications, and wishlists automatically.
Step-by-Step: How to Set Up Your Exchange on Elfster
- Go to Elfster.com and click "Start a Gift Exchange". No credit card or premium plan required — it's completely free.
- Name your exchange and set the rules.Choose a spending limit, gift date, and any exclusions (e.g., spouses who shouldn't draw each other).
- Invite your participants. Enter email addresses or copy a shareable link. Elfster sends each person a personalized invitation.
- Elfster draws names automatically.When you're ready, click "Draw Names." Everyone gets a private email telling them who they have — and only they can see it.
- Participants build wishlists. Each person can add gift ideas from any store. Their Santa browses the list anonymously.
- Shop and deliver. Buy from the wishlist or go off-script. Ship to an address or deliver in person on gift day.
- Reveal! Meet up in person or on a video call to open gifts and guess who had whom.
Tips for a Great Online Exchange
- Make wishlists mandatory. Even 3–5 items gives Santas enough to work with.
- Set a price range, not just a max. "$20–$30" sets clearer expectations than just "under $30."
- Schedule a virtual reveal. A shared video call makes the opening just as fun as being in the same room.
- Use Elfster's anonymous messaging. Let Santas leave hints without breaking cover — it builds anticipation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Elfster really free to use?
Yes — completely free. Elfster has been free since 2000 and serves over 47 million gift givers worldwide.
How does Elfster keep the name draw secret?
Elfster's algorithm assigns pairings and notifies each participant privately by email. Even the organizer can't see who got whom.
Can I add exclusion rules (e.g., couples shouldn't draw each other)?
Yes. Add exclusion pairs when creating your exchange and Elfster's draw algorithm will respect them automatically.
What happens if someone drops out after names are drawn?
The organizer can reassign that participant's match to another person with one click. Elfster re-notifies automatically.
