Liz Sayasane Brings Fun and Music to Special Moments
Liz Sayasane is DJ Lizz. Photo by Wezz De La Rosa / JEFAS Magazine
Since childhood, Liz Sayasane danced while her father played the guitar and piano to disco music, ’70s hits, and songs composed by her uncle. It’s no surprise that she learned to DJ and turned her passion into a business.
“I’ve always been surrounded by all kinds of music. I grew up listening to many genres, which expanded my repertoire of what I love to play,” says Sayasane.
When she danced at Latin clubs and salsa nights, she noticed the lack of musical variety. This led her to experiment with DJ software on her computer and pay attention to the beats that got people dancing.
Liz Sayasane’s Path to Becoming a Professional DJ
She met local DJs who worked at events and nightclubs in central Iowa and asked them for tips to improve her technique. They gave her opportunities to play after-hours, which she used to practice.
When her friend opened a club, they invited her to play regularly. She also learned from other DJs at Latin Night at The Saddle every Thursday, perfecting her use of software and professional equipment.
Her first big break came at a grand opening event for a friend’s club, where she stood out among the DJs. “The fact that I was a female DJ piqued people’s curiosity, and I think it opened a lot of doors for me,” she recalls. From that moment on, she started receiving invitations for events, and her career took off.
As Latin clubs came and went in Iowa, Sayasane decided to diversify. Instead of following the club scene, she focused on private events like weddings, quinceañeras, and graduations.
“I love being part of people’s special days and sharing their happiness,” Sayasane mentions. However, with her fully booked schedule, she felt bad turning down events because she didn’t know other DJs to collaborate with.
This led to the creation of Latino Events Entertainment, a company dedicated to private events with a professional focus. “Being a nightclub DJ is very different from private events. Professional image is key. There can’t be loose cables or messy equipment. You have to create a flawless setup,” she emphasizes.
Liz Sayasane’s Expansion and Success in Iowa
To grow her company, Sayasane sought DJs with experience and professionalism in various events and festivals. Although she initially feared rejection, she found that DJs were excited about her vision.
“I’m a woman in a male-dominated field. I had to fight to be taken seriously. Being accepted by other DJs meant a lot to me,” she explains. Today, her team covers a large part of Iowa, with DJs in Quad Cities, Omaha, Bondurant, and soon in Waterloo.
Sayasane handles marketing and coordinates each event with clients before assigning a DJ. Her goal is to ensure the music reflects the cultures and traditions of each celebration while maintaining a seamless, high-quality experience.
Her reputation has led Sayasane to work at high-profile events, including at the Des Moines Art Center, where she met the grandson of former Iowa Governor Robert D. Ray. She was pleasantly surprised to learn that he was marrying the granddaughter of the first Asian refugee Ray helped bring to Iowa.
On her website, Sayasane highlights the importance of her team: “We are a group of bilingual (English-Spanish) DJs serving modern and multicultural couples looking for the perfect musical balance for an unforgettable night.”
For Sayasane, the most memorable events are those where cultures come together to celebrate love through music. “Being in the presence of love always excites me. It’s an honor to be part of it,” she says.
Liz Sayasane is DJ Lizz. Photo by Wezz De La Rosa / JEFAS Magazine[/caption]
Challenges and the Future of Latinas in the DJ Industry
One of her biggest challenges has been time management. Despite running her company, Sayasane also works full-time and raises a 4-year-old daughter and two college-aged children. Her husband has been a great support, helping with equipment at events.
“I don’t think I could have achieved all of this without someone by my side who supports me. My husband is my biggest cheerleader,” she affirms. Her daughter is already showing interest in music and occasionally accompanies her to events.
In Iowa, she currently knows of only one other Latina DJ and hopes they can collaborate in the future. “This is what I’m passionate about—working with my community, Latin events, and representing our culture,” she says.
While she focuses on making Latino Events Entertainment her full-time occupation, Sayasane has a clear message for future Latina entrepreneurs:
“If you have a passion for something or see a need in your community, follow your instincts and do it. Don’t be afraid. Ask for help, connect with those already in the business, and take every opportunity to learn and grow.”
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