The super game for your family and company parties. A classic that never goes out of style.

The super game for your family and company parties A classic that never goes out of style.

The secret friend, gnomes or the invisible friend are just some of the names by which the game is known around the world.

There's no denying that this practical and simple game has become a staple of the Christmas celebrations. Work colleagues or family members want to do something very special and show affection in a playful way.

The secret boyfriend is always full of fun.

Don't know how to play the game?

It's very simple. Each participant's name is written on a piece of paper. It is recommended that there are no more than 20 participants. The papers are folded and placed in a container. Everyone now draws a piece of paper. It may only be changed if it is your own name. There are also special programs on the internet that you can use if the participants live well away from each other. For a period of time, a week or two, the participants secretly give each other gifts. No one should know who is giving and who each individual is giving.

You can allow small hints so that everyone has an idea of ​​what the recipient of the gift wants. For example, you can leave a small note or talk to friends as you would like to receive. This is how you help your secret friend, especially if it's also someone you really like.

There are different ways to play the invisible friend. For example, you can set a specific topic such as things needed on vacation. Another possibility is the awkward friend. Sexual innuendos can be made here, which are sometimes a bit embarrassing, and "revenge" can even be taken on your dearest enemies.

Anecdotes

At one of my previous jobs we organized secret Santa in December. We were about 16 people and I was the newest member of the team. I knew a few names, but I didn't really know what everyone's name was. My dwarf partner was a super nice colleague, but I didn't know her very well. Everything went normally during the two weeks we played the game. On the last evening we all met for the company party and to hand over the presents. I commented that we couldn't do that because my imp partner wasn't around. Everyone looked at me in amazement and asked if I was kidding. Until one of the girls asked me who my partner was. When I told her the name, she pointed across the table and said, "There it is. Right in front of you!” I wanted to die at that moment. I had simply mixed up the names of the two girls who had their jobs next to each other. But I was lucky, because the presentee was delighted with my present. It was a very funny moment, but later that's exactly what united us in the office in a particularly strong way.

I have to admit that at this celebration everyone has gone to great lengths to find useful and beautiful gifts. For my part, I got exactly what I wanted. My secret friend earned five stars.

mia-mai buttons for your secret friend.

Make your own shields for your secret friends. Sentences like "My friend is a real original" or "My friend is really cute" are really well received. You can also make stickers with your gift wishes. This gives your friends a chance to see what you really want.

Another idea is to make signs or magnets with the names of all members participating in the game. This is particularly worthwhile in large offices. Another tip from my own experience.

If you want to risk a bit more, you can also organize an official star award. So super well thought out and useful gifts get five points and those that are just gifts get two points. More than one will strive to get the maximum number of stars.

Remember that chocolate is always a good choice and even if it's just a candy, it can make your secret friend's day.

Don't forget that mia-mai button stickers and magnets are reusable. So they are always up-to-date from celebration to celebration and you don't have to spend money year after year.