Hello readers!
I am excited to be bringing back our Secret Santa gift exchange. We had a lot of fun with this in the past, so I hope you join us this year!
We use Elfster, an online platform that does most of the work for me. You will create an account if you don’t already have one, click the signup link in this post, and let the magical virtual elves do their work.
Make sure you fill out a wishlist using the link on the site. You can shop the Elfster store and add things from it, but most people find gifts they want from other sites, which works, too. You can always feel free to make an Amazon or Etsy wishlist and link to that; it will let you write in wishes and gives you the option to share links.
Details
Shipping Reminders
Be mindful that shipping times can get dicey around the holidays and may be extra long for participants outside of the US. Please plan accordingly so gifts arrive on time.
When you ship a gift, mark it as sent via the Elfster page and provide tracking info.
Similarly, mark your gift as received so your Santa knows it got to you safely.
Include RBR in the name field when putting in delivery information so that people can more easily tell it’s for our event.
Keep in mind that your delivery address format may be unusual/unfamiliar to your Santa, so be as specific as possible so they know what to ender where.
Rules, Guidelines, and Other Info
Make a wishlist: Please don’t make your Santa chase after you for gift ideas; keep in mind they may not be someone who knows you well.
Participate: if you join, please be sure to actively participate in the event. It’s not fair to anyone if their Santa doesn’t follow through! That being said, we understand that life is unpredictable. If something comes up, let me know as soon as possible so an alternative gift can be arranged for your person.
Keep it anonymous: Part of the fun is that nobody knows who drew their name or the identity of anyone else’s Santa until the exchange takes place. You can anonymously message your giftee via Elfster’s messaging system, but if you’re having trouble reaching them, you can reach out to me to coordinate.
Stay roughly within the budget: Our budget this year is $25.00. While it’s ok to spend more if you want, try not to go way overboard. We don’t want anyone feeling overshadowed if possible 🙂
I do have the ability to add in draw restrictions. Reach out to me if there is someone whom you don’t want to draw, but please don’t take advantage of this to avoid drawing someone you don’t know well. This feature is for such instances as not wanting to draw your partner’s name or the name of someone with whom you already plan to exchange gifts, or if you have a serious conflict with a person participating.
Lastly, have fun! I’m available to answer any questions at any time throughout the event.
Join the Event
You can sign up here. Make sure to do so by October 31st!