How to Run a Commander Secret Santa Deck Exchange

1. Set the rules for your pod

Pick a budget everyone is comfortable with. A common choice is $50, priced on TCGplayer, not counting basic lands or sleeves.

Choose a Commander Bracket so every deck lands at a similar power level, and agree on a proxy policy before anyone starts buying cards.

2. Pick your dates

You need two dates: when names are drawn, and Exchange Night, when everyone meets in person to swap decks.

Leave a few weeks between them so builders have time to order singles and sleeve up.

3. Invite players with a private link

Share one private invite link or QR code with your group chat. Only people with the link can join, and you can choose to approve each sign-up.

4. Collect deck preferences

Each player taps the colors and mechanics they love, flags anything to avoid, and can add a short note. Players who want a surprise can skip it.

5. Draw names in secret

At the scheduled time, names are drawn automatically. Nobody gets themselves, and every player only sees who they are building for. Even the organizer can't peek.

6. Brew, track and unwrap

Builders mark their progress, from not started to sleeved and ready, so the organizer knows the group is on track without seeing any pairings.

On Exchange Night, reveal each gift one at a time, then shuffle up and play your new decks.

Tips for a smooth exchange

• Agree on what counts toward the budget before the draw.
• Ask builders to include a decklist link so the recipient can tweak the deck later.
• Bring a few extra sleeves and deck boxes for last-minute builds.
• Plan a first game with the new decks right after the reveal.