Staff Reports | Real Property & Homes
The Little Daisy Jerome has been reimagined as a 25,000-square-foot private estate where history and contemporary design intersect. Built in 1918 by copper baron James “Rawhide Jimmy” Douglas to house miners, the property now serves as a venue for private stays, weddings and retreats.
Under the direction of managing partner Brian Grooms and his father and business partner, F. Andrew Grooms, the estate’s marble halls and sunlit atrium host milestone birthdays, art-focused gatherings and multi-day weddings.
According to a press release, the venue is designed to offer guests a personalized experience that blends cinematic ambiance with historical significance.
“People don’t just want to go somewhere anymore,” Mr. Grooms said. “They want to belong somewhere, even if it’s just for a weekend. The Little Daisy offers that — a place where every guest becomes part of its century-old story.”
The estate’s transformation aligns with broader shifts in travel preferences. According to Airbnb’s 2024 Travel Trends Report, group bookings for entire homes have increased 80% compared to pre-pandemic levels. Expedia reports that “together travel” — trips focused on connection and shared experiences — now leads the luxury market.
The Knot projects 2.5 million weddings in the United States in 2026, the highest number in nearly four decades, with one in five couples opting for destination events and multi-day celebrations.
The Little Daisy Jerome offers curated experiences such as private chef dinners, local wine tastings and guided tours through the Verde Valley, the release states.
The estate includes accommodations for 19 guests in the main house and up to 33 when The Geologist’s House and Villa Contenta are included. Features include a light-filled atrium that doubles as an art gallery, a chef’s kitchen, a billiards room and an upstairs lounge.
Only one party stays at a time, ensuring privacy and exclusivity. For weddings, the estate’s team develops custom packages that incorporate art, history and personal touches.
“We turned The Little Daisy into a weekend-long wedding with our closest family and friends,” said bride Melissa Brown. “From the early planning to the final day, the team made sure every detail ran smoothly so we could be fully present. The history, the beauty and the intimacy of the estate cannot be replicated — it’s even more magical in person than any photo could show.”
