Draw Names Online

The digital, cheat-proof version of pulling names from a hat. Everyone finds out who they are buying for in their own inbox. Nobody draws themselves and couples never match.

Last updated:

Secret Santa Generator

2 people
Budget, date and note (optional)
Participants

    Put people who shouldn't draw each other (e.g. couples) in the same group.

    Paste a list

    Results are never shown on screen; everyone only sees their own match. Not even the organizer.

    The problem with drawing names from a hat

    • Drawing yourself: You have to start over, and often someone’s match is revealed.
    • Couples matching: People who already exchange gifts end up together.
    • Everyone must be in the same room: Remote family or colleagues can’t join.
    • Lost slips: Papers get lost and people forget who they drew.

    How online name drawing works

    Enter each participant’s name and email in the form above, put anyone who shouldn’t match in the same group, and press the button. Everyone is placed in one random chain (Anna → Ben → Chloe → … → Anna) and each person is emailed only their own match. Results are never displayed on screen, not even to the organizer.

    Who is it for?

    • Friends: One gift each before your holiday get-together.
    • Families: One gift per person instead of everyone buying for everyone.
    • Workplaces: A team or company-wide office Secret Santa.
    • Schools and clubs: Teachers, parents or club members exchanging gifts.
    • Any occasion: Birthdays, Eid, Valentine’s Day or teacher appreciation.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is drawing names online fair?

    Yes. Matches are generated with cryptographically secure random numbers. Nobody, including the organizer, can influence or see the result.

    What happens if I run the draw again?

    Each draw is independent and everyone receives a new email. Tell participants that only the latest email counts.

    Can I use this to pick a giveaway winner?

    No. This tool is for gift exchanges where everyone buys for someone. It is not designed to pick a single winner.