FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Questions couples and families often ask. If yours isn't here, just ask.
Where do you perform?
Joy is based in Sligo and sings at events all over Ireland. A distance charge applies depending on the location.
Can we request a song that isn't on your repertoire list?
Yes. The repertoire is a guide, and the songs are only suggestions: it is possible to request something that is not listed. For weddings, you may choose songs that are special to you, while checking their suitability with your priest or celebrant. For funerals, Joy is always prepared to honour any personal song requests from families.
Do you perform with other musicians?
Yes. Joy always sources the perfect accompaniment from experienced musicians to complement her voice. The standard combination is vocalist with an accompanying pianist, however Joy also happily collaborates with guitarists, string quartets and other instrumentalists when requested.
What kinds of weddings do you sing at?
Joy performs at church ceremonies, civil ceremonies and drinks receptions. The Weddings page shows where music usually happens in a church or civil ceremony.
Can a song be used at a different part of the ceremony?
Yes. Songs listed under one section can be used at other stages of the ceremony or mass. The Signing of the Register and the Recessional take place after the mass has ended, so song choices there are generally more flexible.
Do you sing in Irish?
Yes. Joy is a confident Irish speaker and enjoys performing as Gaeilge. Her repertoire includes Irish-language hymns and songs such as Mo Ghrá Thú a Thiarna, Ag Críost an tSíol, Éist a Stór, A Mhuire Mháthair and Maidin ag Gealadh, and pop songs such as Take My Hand (Picture This) are also available as Gaeilge. Feel free to send on requests as Gaeilge.
Do you sing at funerals?
Yes. Joy sings at funeral masses and services and delivers a dignified performance in keeping with each family’s song and hymn choices. See the funeral repertoire.
When should I book?
As early as possible once your date is confirmed, as peak dates such as summer and December weekends book up quickly. Bookings open up to 18 months in advance. If your date is further out, or coming up soon, get in touch, as information can be provided and availability can sometimes be arranged.
Is a deposit required?
Yes. For wedding bookings, the date is secured once a non-refundable deposit of €100 has been paid. The remaining balance is due on or before the wedding date.
If you cancel more than 8 weeks before your wedding, only the deposit is retained. If you cancel within 8 weeks, the full balance is payable, as it is unlikely the date can be rebooked at short notice.
How are wedding songs chosen?
Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive a form covering each part of the ceremony. You can then select from Joy’s repertoire, and follow up with Joy for suggestions or to talk through ideas.
The completed form is due two weeks before the ceremony. If you’d like a song that isn’t in the repertoire, please request it as early as possible so Joy and the accompanying musicians have time to prepare.
How much notice is needed to learn a new song?
Joy is a versatile performer and can often accommodate requests at short notice, but earlier requests allow for the most polished performance.
Do you bring your own sound system?
Yes. Joy and the musicians bring a full professional sound system to every booking. Where a venue or church has a suitable system, it may be used instead, but backup equipment is always on hand. Please ensure a power supply is available at your venue.
How does pricing work?
Ceremony packages start by including Joy singing with an accompanying pianist. Any additional musicians are priced individually, and drinks reception music can be added for a fee. Contact Joy for your tailored quote.
How quickly can you confirm for a funeral?
Joy understands that funeral arrangements happen at short notice and will confirm availability as quickly as possible, usually within a few hours. For the fastest response, please call or WhatsApp on +353 87 292 2253.
Do you liaise with the priest, celebrant or funeral director?
Song choices should be approved by your priest or celebrant in advance, as some churches have guidelines on what can be performed. As Joy typically meets the clergy on the day itself, it is the responsibility of the couple or family to confirm this beforehand. Joy is happy to advise on suitable choices and answer any questions along the way.
I have a couple of ideas for my wedding entrance but can’t decide which, can you help with this?
Yes! Joy loves hearing your ideas and seeing what you can come up with together to get it just right. For example, this may include combining two songs, or using instrumentals to differentiate sections.
Can a family member or friend perform a song?
Absolutely. Joy’s musicians can accompany them, or they’re welcome to perform independently using the sound system on the day. To make sure everything runs smoothly, please mention this when booking so the song, key and any rehearsal can be arranged in advance.
Can you do outdoor ceremonies or event performances?
Yes. Outdoor performances require a covered area for the musicians and equipment, and access to power nearby. All outdoor bookings are weather dependent, so please confirm an indoor backup option with your venue in advance.
What happens if Joy is unwell on the day?
Thankfully this has never happened. However, in the unlikely event that Joy is unable to perform due to illness or an emergency, she will arrange a replacement from her trusted network of professional singers. Having stepped in to cover weddings for other singers at as little as a few hours’ notice herself, Joy understands how important continuity is, and will ensure your music goes ahead as planned with your chosen songs.
Do you perform at destination weddings abroad?
Absolutely, and Joy’s passport is always ready! Travel and accommodation costs are quoted separately to music services, so get in touch with your date and location.
Another question? Contact Joy, or call +353 87 292 2253.