Debbie Does Disco

The Debbie Does Disco
Origin Story

It all started with a group of friends who wanted to bring something special to Dallas—a true disco experience. Originally created by Brandon Ayala in 2012, who also owned Epocha, a highly curated streetwear store in Deep Ellum, which was ahead of its time. There were a few events, but it sort of fizzled out until 2017, when Brandon met Arely Loza, (Creative Director), Maria Alonzo (Director of Marketing and PR), and her brother Chema Alonzo (Production Director). Along with a perfect storm of friends that came together is when Debbie Does Disco really started to pop as the series identity became more defined into its true form as the “Debbies” joined the team. The Debbies brought in the missing element of consistent quality curated experiences to the series, which really helped it blossom. Brandon was and is now able to continue his original idea and concept into an experience beyond expectations, now able to take Debbie to more places with elevated creativity.

Their first parties were intimate gatherings designed to create a sense of escape, transforming everyday venues into vibrant wonderlands of light, sound, and soul. But over time, Debbie Does Disco grew even further into a full-fledged production team, complete with a roster of talented creatives who pour their hearts into every event.

From the beginning, they’ve stayed true to their roots: vinyl-only sets, immersive decor, and an ethos that’s about much more than partying. This crew doesn’t just throw events—they build spaces where people can heal, connect, and dance their worries away.

Love Is The Message: A Five-Year Love Story.

Love Is The Message isn’t just an event. It’s Debbie Does Disco’s crown jewel, a love letter to the community they’ve built and a tribute to one of disco’s most influential pioneers, David Mancuso. Mancuso, the legendary host of New York City’s The Loft in the 1970s, believed in creating egalitarian, transformative spaces where everyone—regardless of status or background—could come together to dance. His guiding principle? Social progress through music and love.

Debbie Does Disco brings that vision to life in Dallas with Love Is The Message, a series of Valentine’s Day-inspired events that embody the spirit of unity and joy. The first LITM, held in 2020, took place in a body shop by day, transformed by the Debbie crew into a dreamy, glowing disco haven. With warm lighting, cozy vibes, and an atmosphere brimming with positivity, it immediately became a cornerstone of their repertoire. Check out some select photos of Love Is The Message from the iconic Dallas photographer Karlo X. Ramos over the years.

What to Expect @ Love Is The Message #5

This year marks a major milestone: the fifth anniversary of Love Is The Message, happening this month on Valentine’s Day, Friday February 14. As usual, Debbie Does Disco is pulling out all the stops for this celebration of love, music, and connection.

When you RSVP in advance (secure your spot here), you’ll receive a commemorative party cup—your golden ticket to perks throughout the night. The party will be a vinyl-only affair, staying true to Debbie’s ethos of authenticity and pure sound. The music will range from house to techno to whatever the DJs feel fits the room’s energy. No matter the genre, you can count on one thing: a space that’s all about dancing, movement, and celebration. 

Recap: Naughty Or Nice Holiday Party by Debbie Does Disco

The holidays in Dallas hit a little differently when Debbie Does Disco is involved. On Saturday, December 21st, they wrapped up the year in signature style with their Naughty Or Nice Holiday Party, co-presented with the creative production tesm at @HiddenFriends. And let’s just say, whether you were naughty, nice, or somewhere in between, this secret soirée was one for the books.

As guests stepped inside, they were welcomed into a world where the holidays collided with disco glam. The lights shimmered, the vibes radiated warmth, and the music pulled everyone straight onto the dance floor.

The energy was electric, fueled by a lineup of Debbie talent: Brandon Epocha (Debbie Does Disco) laid down the grooves that kept the crowd moving all night long Corey Spangler (Proton) brought his unique energy to the decks, delivering deep, danceable beats and a performance by Chris Rodriguez (Live Sax) added an irresistible layer of soul to the night, all under the atmosphere brought to life by Michael Lights, whose lighting and production transformed the space into a shimmering, glowing wonderland, especially combined with detail of the holiday decorations provided by the Debbies. Every detail radiated festive energy, creating the perfect backdrop for the night’s revelry.

No party is complete without refreshments, and Painted Donkey Tequilla and Townes Vodka had everyone covered, served up by Sam Lazo and Jay, the drinks were as memorable as the music.

Naughty or Nice?

Whether you were repping your nice side or leaning all the way into naughty, there were plenty of memories to be made and shared. And speaking of capturing the magic, Peyton Mixon was on hand to photograph the event, ensuring every shimmering detail and dancefloor move was preserved. There was also a photobooth, courtesy of Hidden Friends, captured the night’s best moments, from angelic smiles to devilish grins. 

Check out their two galleries below…