The Art of Canapé Timing: When (and How) to Feed Your Guests

When people talk about catering, most of the focus is on what you serve. But at canapé parties, there’s another factor that makes just as much difference: timing.

The right canapé at the right moment keeps energy up, drinks in balance, and guests happy.

At VYC, we’ve seen it all—and we’ve honed the perfect flow. Here’s how to pace your canapés so they work with your event, not against it.

1. Arrival & First Drinks (0–30 mins)

The first impression sets the tone. Guests walk in, they get a drink in hand as quickly as possible. Pre-pouring some drinks helps speed service and manage demand when multiple guests arrive at the same time.

Canapes service in the arrival half hour really depends on the start time of your event. If you are starting at a time when guests are likely to be hungry, offering some light canapes or platters on arrival can be a welcome gesture. Start light and stylish, one-bite options that are easy to eat while mingling.

But with main canapes service running 30 – 90 mins after arrival, its more of a generous welcome gesture, as they are only having to wait 30 mins.

Purpose: Break the ice, show generosity as guests walk in the door, and buy breathing room while everyone settles in.

2. Main Canapé Wave (30–120 mins)

This is the main event, the time when the food really does the heavy lifting.

The length of this wave flexes with your event duration and the quantity of food you are offering. A light snack can be served in 40–60 minutes; compared to a heavier canapes service running over dinner.

Canapes should be served with plenty of variety and move from light to more substantial canapes. If your event runs over a main meal time include walk and fork options, so you get heavier, finally ending with sweet signalling the end of the canapes service.

Purpose: Carry the event and satisfy hunger without slowing conversation.

3. Late-Night Finish (180 – 210 mins)

For longer events, close with a final wave that soaks up drinks and keeps energy alive. Think mini burgers, hot chips, bao buns, or other hearty, playful bites.

This isn’t about hunger —it’s about momentum. Guests are fuelled for dancing, the after-party, or the journey home.

Purpose: Refuel the room, help with alcohol absorption, and maintain energy into the night.

We’ve learned one thing after hosting hundreds of private events: timing is everything. When your canapés match the moment, the night moves naturally — guests stay fuelled, the bar stays balanced, and the rhythm flows just right.

That’s what we call a well-paced party.