Jaclyn Sienna India established her boutique travel concierge, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with a determination to succeed, despite having no clients initially. Early on, she often found herself fabricating responses to inquiries, claiming the business was fully booked, all while her husband doubted her aspirations.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s strategy of persistence has paid off. She now serves high-profile clients, including former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey, catering to individuals earning over $100 million annually. Her services focus on offerings that these affluent clients cannot easily access on their own.
India emphasizes the importance of personal connection and genuine care in her work. Having spent five years as a server before starting her business, she understands the nuances of client relationships. Her “black book” of over 2,000 contacts in the hospitality sector—including luxury hotels, yachts, and upscale restaurants—enables her to create unique travel experiences tailored to her clients’ desires.
She explains that her clients often have a vision but lack the means to realize it. India’s skill lies in quickly grasping that vision and making it a reality. For her, the focus extends beyond just high-end venues; she strives to ensure that the experiences she arranges are truly meaningful.
While some might consider iconic dining spots like the French Laundry in Napa Valley attractive, India believes other experiences might be more worthwhile. For instance, she prefers to recommend venues like Single Thread Farms, suggesting that her choices are guided by what she finds genuinely interesting.
India has orchestrated extraordinary experiences for her clients, such as a candlelit dinner in Versailles and brunch atop the Arc de Triomphe. Her service also includes pairing meals with renowned personalities, including breakfast with the Hermes family and lunch with the Fendi family in Rome.
At times, her clients request simpler comforts, as was the case with George W. Bush during his trip to Ethiopia, where she ensured he had familiar foods. India asserts that her day consists of engaging with various people, from cab drivers to restaurant staff, highlighting her approach to discovering exceptional options for her clients. Ultimately, she believes in delivering authentic experiences that go beyond just luxury.