Starting Newman-Dailey in 1985 with Randy Newman, well before the internet even existed, Jeanne Dailey gravitated toward the same platform of marketing she still does today- grassroots, word of mouth, and old-fashioned print advertising. One of their very first ads was in Country Living Magazine. After some success with informing surrounding areas and introducing them to the wonderful gem of Destin, Florida, Randy and Jeanne started gaining some heavy traction and success with their commitment to pristine service and hospitality.
After many years of success, Randy sold his assets to Jeanne, and she became sole owner of Newman-Dailey Properties. While Jeanne continued to build her business, she faced many hurdles. While raising her children as a single mother, she notes, “My children have always been my greatest accomplishment.” In 2010, Jeanne was faced with the unthinkable as she endured one of the largest oil spills in history in the Gulf of Mexico. Thankfully, by this time social media had become a newer facet of her marketing tactics and led Jeanne and her clients down a path of quick renewed faith in travel. Tourists could see the gulf clearing and beaches restored despite the news. While also enduring the housing market crashes and COVID, Jeanne says “pretty much anything is fixable.” She has always led with the saying, “Where there are lemons, we will make lemonade!”
After 40 years in business leadership and over 10 years of connection with the Destin Charity Wine Auction, Jeanne was asked to be the Chair this year. The Destin Charity Wine Auction celebrated 19 years this year. Founded in 2005, Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) has donated $32 Million to Northwest Florida charities through hosting world-class wine and culinary events. These funds have impacted the lives of over 100,000 youth, including those afflicted by health issues and abuse. While Jeanne says they raised over 3.3 million dollars in one beautiful weekend, her favorite part about being the Chair and involved in the auction is all the friendships and connections she has made along the way.