[header] How to do a secret santa [title] Write the names of everyone participating on a piece of paper. [step] If the group is larger and people don't know each other that well, it is a good idea to get people to write their names and some distinguishing features/interests such as " male astronomy buff , 65 " or " female triathlete devotee , 34 ". In more intimate group environments, only the name of the person is necessary. 
[title] Cut out and toss the names into a hat. [step] The next step is to prepare the names for a drawing.