From the origin story of their businesses to the ways they allowed themselves to grow as entrepreneurs, our Female Founders series gives a view into the lives of successful women from a variety of industries. Join us for today’s feature, Daniella Morganelli, offering a behind the scenes look at some of what she has done to succeed so far, advice for those starting off, and plans for the future.
What’s your business and how did you get started?
My business is DM Rentals LLC, a hospitality and travel brand rooted in creating meaningful, stress-free experiences for families, friends, and travelers. What started as one Swiss-style mountain condo in the White Mountains of New Hampshire quickly evolved into a multi-brand business that now includes short-term vacation rentals, mid-term furnished stays, baby and family gear rentals, private pool and hot-tub experiences, and a travel-planning service. I initially got started while balancing a full-time career in education, noticing a gap between beautiful spaces and truly family-friendly, thoughtfully designed experiences that made travel feel easier—not harder. By focusing on comfort, design, and genuine hospitality, each new venture grew organically through word of mouth and repeat guests. Today, DM Rentals LLC reflects both my entrepreneurial journey and my belief that memorable moments and connection are the real luxury in travel.
What is one thing you’re really proud of that you’ve created or accomplished?
I’m proud of all of it, but without hesitation, The Crimson Cocoa Chalet is my greatest accomplishment. Every single detail of that home beams with pride for me—so much so that if it were possible to be in love with a house, I truly am. What was originally meant to be a move-in-ready, rental-ready property quickly became a full creative transformation as my vision grew: new paint turned into new floors, furniture, beds, linens, lighting, a reimagined kitchen, thoughtful amenities, and ongoing plans to elevate the outdoor experience through landscaping and future upgrades. Our goal has always been for the chalet to radiate joy, warmth, and comfort—and it does—yet I’m constantly asking how we can make it even better. Every glowing review, every guest who walks through the door, and every memory created with family and friends inside that space is the truest measure of what I’m most proud of.
What’s your favorite thing about being a business owner?
My favorite thing about being a business owner is the ability to create joy and watch it ripple outward. I genuinely find fulfillment in seeing families relax, reconnect, and make memories in the spaces and experiences we provide. What makes it even more meaningful is that I’m able to share those same luxuries—vacation homes, pools, hot tubs, and cultural connections—with my own family, allowing my children to grow up experiencing the world through people, places, and moments rather than things. These businesses allow me to give back not through money, but through time, presence, and shared experiences, which I value far more. My hope is that one day my children will understand not only the opportunities these ventures created for them, but also the dedication and intention behind the work I poured into building something that serves others and our family alike.
What is the boldest thing you’ve ever done in business?
The boldest thing I’ve ever done in business was investing every dollar I had to purchase a two-bedroom condo and envisioning it as something much bigger—a four-bedroom chalet built around possibility, not fear. At just 26 years old, I took a chance on buying a condo with the dream of turning it into a vacation rental, despite constant warnings that it was too risky, too expensive, and something I’d never be able to afford. I did it anyway. I trusted myself, my work ethic, and my vision, and that single condo eventually became two—and later evolved into one large, thoughtfully designed chalet. The boldest choice wasn’t the investment itself, but choosing to believe in myself when even those closest to me doubted me, and reminding myself through every bill, every tight month, and every off-season that I’ve got this—and to keep going.
What’s one thing you’re currently excited about for the future of your business?
I’m most excited about what this first full year with the chalet is teaching us. This is our first complete season operating the home from start to finish, and we’re learning everything—from the type of guests it attracts to the natural rhythms, highs, and slower moments of the business. I’m especially looking forward to our first full summer, hearing directly from guests about what they loved most, what made their stay memorable, and how we can continue to elevate the experience. Just as meaningful, I’m excited to finally enjoy the chalet ourselves, now that the bulk of renovations are behind us. It feels like we’re shifting from constant construction to confidence and cruise control—still growing, but with intention rather than chaos.
What’s your best business advice you would give to other women?
My best business advice for other women is to trust yourself first and do the work to back that trust up. Learn as much as you can, do your research, and seek out different perspectives—but never let someone else’s fear outweigh your own instincts. Confidence grows through action, and growth only happens when you’re willing to take thoughtful risks. Enjoy every moment of the journey, and when the joy begins to fade, give yourself permission to evolve and explore your next passion. Staying curious, adaptable, and committed to growth is far more powerful than staying stagnant for the sake of comfort.
