Canape Quantity Calculator

This calculator applies the consumption rates that UK caterers use as an industry rule of thumb. These are planning estimates from event-catering practice — not figures from a codified standard — so treat the result as a starting point and adjust for your guests and menu. The calculation multiplies a per-person-per-hour rate (which varies by event type) by the duration and the headcount.

Default planning rates per person (generous, editable)

• Drinks reception: 6-8 per hour (average 7)
• Canape-only event: 10-12 per hour (average 11)
• Pre-dinner drinks: 4-6 total (fixed, regardless of duration)

Planning

• Total canapes divided equally across varieties
• ~12 canapes per standard serving tray
• Always round up — better to have a few spare than run short

These per-hour rates are planning averages at the generous end of published UK guidance, and real consumption is front-loaded — more canapes are eaten in the first hour than in later ones. For comparison, University of Birmingham suggests 4-6 per person for a one-hour reception plus 2-4 for each further hour, and Savery Grazing suggests 6-8 in the first hour of a canape party then 3-4 thereafter. Multiplying a single flat rate by the full duration deliberately errs towards over-catering, so round up and treat the result as a comfortable ceiling. Use the Advanced Options to override any rate for your own catering brief.