Christmas cards for your Secret Santa

You have drawn a name out of a bowl, bought something under a budget that nobody can quite explain, and now you have to put a card with it. The trouble is the card. You know the person well enough to wrap their present, but not well enough to write something sincere, and you cannot sign your name.

A short, mildly funny card does the trick. Say something kind, give nothing away, and leave them wondering. Pick a card, add your own words inside, and send it as a link by email or text. Schedule it so it lands with the gift, and keep your secret for as long as you can manage.

5 things to write inside

Swap in their name. Change anything that doesn’t sound like you.

  1. funny Merry Christmas, [first name]. Your Secret Santa has spent a lot of time thinking about you. This is unsettling for both of us.
  2. sweet [first name], I picked your name and I'm quietly pleased about it. Happy Christmas from someone who likes having you around.
  3. funny I can neither confirm nor deny that I know you take three sugars, [first name]. Merry Christmas.
  4. quiet Happy Christmas, [first name]. From someone in the office.
  5. rude Merry Christmas, [first name]. I didn't pick you on purpose. I got the one name in the bowl I didn't know, and then I found out you're nice. Typical.

Questions people ask

What do you write in a Secret Santa card?

Keep it light and anonymous. Say you enjoyed choosing the gift, say one nice thing about them, and avoid anything that gives away your handwriting or your department. A short joke about being a mystery usually works.

Can I send a Secret Santa card without revealing who I am?

Yes. Send it as a link from an address or number that doesn't give you away, or hand over the gift and let the card travel with it. Many people sign off with a nickname, like 'your mysterious elf', and leave it there.

Is it okay to be a bit rude in a Secret Santa card?

A cheeky line works if you know the person has a sense of humour, and if everyone in the group does the same. Keep it affectionate and never personal. If you don't know them, choose sweet or funny and play it safe.