Davonne Reaves is not just making moves in the hospitality industry; she’s redefining what ownership looks like for Black entrepreneurs. From her humble beginnings as a front desk agent to becoming a trailblazing hotel owner and educator, Davonne’s journey is a testament to vision, resilience, and the power of community investment.thepurposeofmoney.com
Early Hustle: From Front Desk to Ownership
Starting her career at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Davonne worked her way up from the front desk, gaining invaluable insights into hotel operations. Her passion and dedication led her to asset management, where she oversaw a $1 billion hotel portfolio for CHMWarnick. This experience laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial leap into hotel ownership. Hertelier
Breaking Barriers: Becoming a Hotel Owner
In 2020, Davonne made history by becoming one of the youngest Black women to co-own a major hotel property. Partnering with Nassau Investments, she acquired the Home2 Suites by Hilton in El Reno, Oklahoma. This milestone was not just personal but symbolic, challenging the status quo in an industry where less than 2% of hotel owners are people of color. Hertelier+1travelnoire.com+1travelnoire.com+2thepurposeofmoney.com+2Costar+2
Expanding the Portfolio: More Hotels, More Impact
Davonne didn’t stop at one property. She continued to expand her portfolio, acquiring two additional hotels:
- Staybridge Suites in Fishers, Indiana
- Hampton Inn & Suites in Scottsburg, Indiana
These acquisitions brought her total property value to $18 million, showcasing her strategic prowess and commitment to scaling her impact. travelnoire.com
Educating and Empowering: The Vonne Group and Vesterr
Understanding the importance of sharing knowledge, Davonne founded The Vonne Group, a hospitality firm dedicated to guiding aspiring hotel owners. Through workshops, consultations, and her upcoming book, How to Buy a Hotel: A Roadmap to Hotel Ownership, she demystifies the process of hotel investment. travelnoire.com
In 2022, she launched Vesterr, the first Black-owned commercial real estate crowdfunding platform, aiming to democratize access to hotel investments. This initiative allows individuals, particularly those from underrepresented communities, to invest in commercial real estate opportunities, fostering collective economic growth. Hertelier
Why Davonne Reaves is Black Business History in the Making
Davonne’s journey from employee to owner exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurship and community collaboration. By breaking barriers in hotel ownership and creating pathways for others to follow, she is not only building her legacy but also paving the way for future generations to achieve economic empowerment.
Her story is a powerful reminder that with vision, determination, and a commitment to uplifting others, we can redefine industries and build lasting wealth within our communities.
🚀 Follow Davonne’s journey and learn more about hotel ownership at The Vonne Group and Vesterr. Because the future of Black entrepreneurship is being built today.
