When Jaclyn Sienna India established Sienna Charles, her travel concierge service, in 2008, she was determined to navigate the challenges by projecting confidence. She recalls how her husband doubted her aspirations when calls from potential clients began pouring in. They would inquire about vacations, saying they read about her in an article, while India internally wrestled with the truth that she had no actual clients at that time.
Fast-forward sixteen years, and her initial gamble has resulted in significant success. India now counts notable figures among her clientele, including former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey. Her services cater to individuals with annual incomes exceeding $100 million—those who seemingly have it all. So what does India offer that her affluent clients cannot achieve alone?
India attributes her success to genuine care and emotional intelligence. Drawing from her experience as a server for five years, she understands the intricacies of human interaction. She emphasizes that connection and empathy are crucial in her line of work.
Sienna Charles features a comprehensive network of over 2,000 contacts within the hospitality sector, including exclusive hotels, yachts, and fine dining restaurants. This extensive relationship-building allows her to craft exceptional travel and dining experiences for her clients.
Her clients often share their aspirations, and India interprets their vision, transforming a few keywords into fulfilling experiences. “They see what they want but lack the tools or creativity to realize it,” she explains.
India’s goal transcends merely providing access to trendy or high-status venues. She aims to ensure that the experiences are truly meaningful. For instance, rather than promoting the well-known French Laundry restaurant, she prefers to recommend more unique dining experiences, like Single Thread Farms.
Her tailored services often create extraordinary events. She has organized candlelit dinners in Versailles and brunch atop the Arc de Triomphe. India frequently pairs meals with opportunities to meet influential personalities, such as the Hermes and Fendi families.
Sometimes, her clients’ requests lean towards the simpler side. While in Ethiopia, she ensured that George W. Bush had familiar comforts like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, while children welcomed him wearing Texas Rangers caps.
“I genuinely care about people,” she states, emphasizing her commitment to engaging with everyone around her—from cab drivers to restaurant staff—to discover the most remarkable options for her clients. For India, the world encompasses more than just luxurious experiences; it includes authentic and diverse encounters that resonate with her clientele.