How many canapés per person for a drinks reception?

For a standard 2-hour drinks reception, plan for 8-12 pieces per person. If canapés are replacing a full meal, increase to 15-18 pieces. For a short pre-dinner reception (30-60 minutes), 4-6 pieces is enough.

How many varieties should I offer?

Offer a minimum of 4-6 varieties for a 2-hour event. Add 2-3 varieties per extra hour. Include at least 30% vegetarian options even if few guests are vegetarian. A good mix includes cold (smoked salmon blinis), warm (mini quiches) and sweet (petit fours) options.

How do I estimate vegetarian canapé numbers?

Even if only 10-15% of guests are vegetarian, make at least 30% of your canapés vegetarian. Non-vegetarian guests also eat veggie options. If you know the exact dietary split, adjust accordingly. Always slightly over-cater on vegetarian options.

PartyCalcs

Canap\u00E9 Calculator

Calculate canap\u00E9 quantities by type for cocktail receptions based on guest count and event duration.

Number of Guests

Total guest count for the event

Event Duration

Length of the canap\u00E9 service

Event TypeType determines quantity multiplier

Budget LevelApproximate cost per canap\u00E9 piece

Include vegetarian options

Allocate a portion as vegetarian

Vegetarian Guests

Percentage of guests who are vegetarian

How We Calculate This

Quantity Formula

Pieces per guest = Pieces per hour x Duration x Event type multiplier

Total pieces = Pieces per guest x Guest count

Event type multipliers: pre-dinner (0.7x), drinks reception (1.0x), cocktail party (1.2x), replacing meal (1.5x). Vegetarian allocation ensures at least 30% of total are meat-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Adjust quantities based on your guests and event type.