How to use them
Before drawing, the host adds each pair that should not be matched, such as partners or a manager and their direct report. An exclusion applies in both directions, and nobody can ever draw themselves.
Avoiding mutual pairs
A separate host option avoids mutual pairs, where A gives to B and B gives to A. If that cannot be satisfied alongside your exclusions, the room tells you the draw used a mutual pair rather than failing.
When a draw is impossible
Too many exclusions can rule out every valid assignment. In that case the draw does not run: remove or relax one exclusion and try again. The draw is final once it runs, so check exclusions first.
Common questions
How do exclusions work?
Before drawing, the host can add pairs of people who must not draw each other, such as partners. Exclusions apply in both directions. The draw also never gives anyone themselves. If your exclusions leave no valid assignment, the draw does not run and you need to remove or relax one.
Can I stop two people from giving gifts to each other?
Yes. The host can turn on the option to avoid mutual pairs, where A gives to B and B gives to A. If that cannot be satisfied alongside your exclusions, the room tells you the draw used a mutual pair rather than failing.
Can I redraw after names are drawn?
No. The draw is final once it runs, so confirm the guest list, exclusions, budget and date first.
Can the host see who drew whom?
No. The host sees who has joined and whether the draw is done. Each match appears only on that person's own page, and the shared stage shows sealed cards and an opened count, never pairings.
How do people join a room?
Share the six-character room code, the invite link or the QR code from the stage. A room holds up to 50 people, and at least 3 are needed to draw.
Do I need an account or email to run a Secret Santa draw?
No. The host creates a room with a room name and their own name, and guests join with a name. Nobody signs up or gives an email address. Each person gets a personal link, so save it to come back.