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Choosing the Right Bites for Your Event: Finger Food vs Canapés If you're planning a party or corporate event in Sydney, one of the first catering questions you'll face is this: Should you serve finger food or canapés? At a glance, they might seem like the same thing — small, hand-held bites — but there’s a big difference that can affect your budget, vibe, and guest experience. I’ve worked on everything from backyard birthdays to high-end galas, and trust me, getting this right makes a huge difference. Finger food and canapés each have their own purpose, feel, and flair. Whether you're going for casual and hearty or stylish and sophisticated, understanding the difference will help you choose the right food for your crowd. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the basics, share real-world examples, and help you plan a menu that’s both delicious and perfectly suited to your event. Why the Distinction Matters for Your Catering Decision When planning your catering, you might be tempted to group all small bites together. But separating finger food from canapés helps avoid confusion and sets your event up for success. Guest Experience: The type of food you serve helps set the tone. Canapés offer elegance and visual appeal, while finger food delivers comfort and satisfaction. Choosing the right one influences how your guests feel — and how full they get. Budgeting and Menu Planning: Canapés typically cost more and require more service, while finger food can be more filling and affordable per guest. Deciding early helps with accurate cost estimates and menu quantities. Avoiding Miscommunication: In the catering world, "canapés" and "finger food" aren’t interchangeable. Being clear with your caterer ensures you get exactly what you're expecting — and paying for.