The arrival of wedding season has reminded me how much I love canapés. From the little circles of toast topped with crab meat to the mini egg tartlets, the seared tuna with dipping sauce or the classic smoked salmon blinis, there is something infinitely spoiling about being served these dainty little snacks and the excitement of seeing a fresh plate of canapés being handed round never fails to excite me. Unfortunately – though I could happily eat canapés all day every day – they do tend to be reserved for special occasions, so I feel it important to make the most of them when I can. Here are my golden rules.
1. Stand near the canapé point of arrival. This will allow you to swoop in while they are still fresh and (more importantly) plentiful.
2. Form a group. It is harder to bypass several expectant canapé hunters than it is a sole operator. You will also be less conspicuous in your greed.
3. Make a horseshoe. By creating a human u-bend, you give a clear sign to canapé-bearing waiters that you and your companions are receptive to snacks.
4. Keep your eye on the ball (the canapés). It is a mistake to get so caught up in conversation that you miss the latest plate of canapés being handed round, particularly if the canapés in question are honey mustard sausages.
Images ©EmilyJenkinson
