Randomizing players to Secret Santa is a very straight forward process that is easily accomplished using Python. This code does exactly that but also:
- Adds the convenience of importing the names already integrated into an Excel sheet
- Automates emailing Secret Santas their recipient's name
This program (APP) optionally uses Gmail to automate the emailing process; but technically, you can use almost any server that uses SMTP for emailing.
To run the program, go to the folder you downloaded/cloned the git and from the command line type:
python3 secret_santa_generator.py
If you chose to use the Gmail feature, follow the steps below to set up the 2-Step Verification (MFA) and obtain an APP password.
- Click on the following link: https://myaccount.google.com/
- On the left panel, click on "Security"
- Scroll down to "How you sign in to Google" then click on the right arrow next to "2-Step Verification"
- Click on "Get started" and go through the prompts for setting up 2-factor authentication
This random 16-character password will be used in lieu of your actual Gmail account password. You will need this to email Santas their recipient's name.
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Click on the following link: https://myaccount.google.com/
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On the left panel, click on "Security"
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Scroll down to "How you sign in to Google" then click on the right arrow next to "2-Step Verification" (you may be asked to enter your Gmail account password)
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Scroll down to "App passwords" then click on the right arrow
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Create an App name (e.g., secret_santa)
A pop-up with your APP password will appear. This is the password you will use in the program.
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Once you're done emailing your Santas, delete the App Password by clicking on the trash icon
