Jaclyn Sienna India launched Sienna Charles, her luxury travel concierge service, in 2008 with the mindset of “fake it until you make it.” At the beginning, she faced skepticism, even from her husband, as clients would reach out inquiring about trips to popular destinations while she had no actual clients to speak of.
Fast forward sixteen years, India has successfully built a clientele that includes prominent figures such as former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey. She caters specifically to high-net-worth individuals, assisting those who earn upwards of $100 million annually. But what sets her apart in a world where these clients can access nearly anything they desire?
India explains that the personal touch and genuine care she provides make a significant difference. Drawing on her past experience as a server, she understands what truly resonates with people. Her extensive network includes over 2,000 connections within the hospitality sector, from luxury hotels to exclusive restaurants, which allows her to curate unique travel experiences.
She emphasizes the importance of understanding her clients’ visions, often translating their fleeting ideas into extraordinary experiences. For instance, she refrains from promoting the well-known French Laundry restaurant, believing that an experience at Single Thread Farms offers more excitement.
India prides herself on crafting bespoke experiences, whether it’s a candlelight dinner in Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. She often arranges meals that allow her clients to engage with notable personalities, such as breakfasts with the Hermes or Fendi families.
However, sometimes her clients seek simplicity; during a trip to Ethiopia, she made sure Bush had familiar comforts like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer. India emphasizes her dedication to authentic experiences, stating that she connects with various individuals throughout the day to create meaningful options for her clients, catering to a wide range of needs beyond mere luxury.