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06 May 2025

Bite-sized bliss: Wedding canapé costs explained

Whether you're seeking low-key or luxury, discover the average cost of beautifully presented canapés for your wedding.

Passion Food Events
Written by
Sabrina Cooper
Content Specialist

Sabrina is a content specialist with eight years of experience in creating captivating content strategies and digital PR campaigns. She has an adoration for the creative, a knack for data diving, and a passion for crafting compelling copy. When she’s not working, she’s either travelling, gaming, or walking her crazy cocker spaniel, Luna.

Nothing sets the tone of a wedding reception better than beautifully presented, mouth-watering canapés. Served after the ceremony and before the wedding breakfast (the main meal), these bite-sized treats give your guests the chance to mix and mingle. With a plethora of flavours to choose from, canapés are a versatile and appreciated feature of any wedding day.

With a decade of experience matching couples with their perfect wedding caterers, we took a deep dive into the numbers behind the bookings. After analysing quotes from 50 different wedding canapé caterers over the last year, we reveal the average cost of wedding canapés.

What factors affect canapé costs?

Before diving into the costs, here are some of the factors that affect wedding canapé prices to help you plan effectively and keep within your budget.

Number of canapés

The main factor that impacts the overall cost of canapés is the number of canapés per person. Usually, couples choose between 3 and 6 canapés per person to ensure everyone is catered for.

Ingredient choices

The type and quality of ingredients you choose for your canapés greatly affect their price. Premium or gourmet items such as seafood, prime meats, or imported delicacies typically carry higher costs. Opting for locally sourced, seasonal ingredients can help keep your expenses more manageable while ensuring freshness and flavour.

Canapé complexity

The complexity and variety of your canapé selection can also impact the overall cost. Intricate canapés that require skilled preparation or a diverse range of dishes will be more expensive. Simplifying your menu or choosing a smaller variety of popular and classic canapés can significantly reduce wedding catering costs without compromising on quality.

Service style

How your canapés are served is another key consideration. Full-service catering, which includes professional serving staff, elegant trays, and detailed presentation, comes with higher costs compared to more basic options such as self-service or simpler presentations. Choosing the right service style to match your wedding’s formality and atmosphere can help manage your budget effectively.

Elegant wedding canapé selection by Danton & Marshall Events
Image: Danton & Marshall Events

The true cost of wedding canapés

Based on four canapés per person, our analysis reveals that the average cost of wedding canapés is £10–£15 per head.

Price pointCost per headWhat to expect
Average£10–£15     Mix of hot and cold canapés to suit your theme
    Professional staff and elegant presentation
    Menu customisation for dietary needs    
Budget£5–£10     Simple, classic canapés for light bites
    Basic serving equipment and minimal staff
    Ideal for budget-conscious celebrations    
Premium£45–£50     Gourmet ingredients and bespoke menus
    Full service with high-end presentation
    Personalised consultations and drink pairings    

Average cost of canapés

Typically, couples spend around £10–£15 per head for an enjoyable selection of four canapés per person. This mid-range price provides a satisfying variety, featuring both hot and cold options to suit diverse tastes and dietary needs. At this price range, you can expect thoughtfully crafted menus, beautifully presented by professional serving staff, and options to customise menus for dietary requirements.

Budget-friendly options

For those seeking tasty light bites on a budget, you can find incredible canapé options ranging from £5–£10 per guest. In this price range, couples can expect simple yet classic favourites, basic serving equipment, and minimal serving staff. While presentation and service might be simpler, you’re sure to enjoy a selection of charming and cost-effective canapés to satisfy every guest.

Premium menus

For a truly exceptional experience, premium canapé packages can range from around £45–£50 per head and form part of comprehensive catering services. These upscale options include bespoke menus crafted with gourmet ingredients, creative culinary techniques, and stunning presentation. Additionally, premium packages typically offer dedicated professional service, personalised menu consultations, and elegant serving options, ensuring an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

Bespoke canapés for your special day

With a variety of options to suit every style and budget, you’re sure to find the perfect canapé selection for your wedding. Whether you prefer low-key or luxury, discover local caterers who specialise in crafting delicious wedding canapés by completing our simple form.