diff --git a/ChristmasEvent.py b/ChristmasEvent.py
index ec3c067..9156418 100755
--- a/ChristmasEvent.py
+++ b/ChristmasEvent.py
@@ -274,6 +274,11 @@ class ChristmasBot:
     def handle_new_request(self, message, sender):
         target_user, wish_content = self.parse_new_wish_request(message)
 
+        if not self.verify_user_flair(sender):
+            message.reply(f"Sorry, u/{sender} but you do not have an active Flair in r/{config.subreddit_name}.\n"
+                          "We only allow wishes for active, flaired community members.")
+            return
+
         # ERROR: Bad Format
         if not target_user:
             reply = ("I couldn't understand your request. Please format your message exactly like this:\n\n"