How to Do Secret Santa Over Text or WhatsApp
Draw the names in SantaDraw, then copy each person\u2019s private link and paste it into a text message, WhatsApp, iMessage or any chat to them. SantaDraw does not send SMS itself, so you send the links from your own phone, which is free and works in any country.
Step by step
- Type the names into the free Secret Santa generator and add any exclusions, a budget and a date.
- Press draw.
- For each person, tap copy on their link and paste it into a direct message to that person.
- They open the link and tap to reveal who they are buying for.
Tips
- Send each link in a direct message, not the group chat, so nobody opens the wrong one.
- Post the budget and date in the group chat; they also appear on every private page.
- On phones, each person can save a festive share card from their page that never shows their match.
Prefer email for some people? Add their address and use the optional email button. See Secret Santa without email.
Frequently asked questions
Does SantaDraw send text messages?
No. It gives you a private link per person, and you send it by text, WhatsApp or any chat from your own phone.
Does it cost anything to send by text?
SantaDraw is free. Sending the link is a normal message on your own phone plan or chat app.
Do people need to install an app?
No. The link opens in any phone browser.
Can I do it all from my phone?
Yes. The generator works on mobile, and you can copy each link straight into your messaging app.