Jaclyn Sienna India established Sienna Charles, her boutique travel concierge service, in 2008, with a strategy of “faking it until you make it.” Initially, this approach had its challenges; she would receive inquiries from potential clients who had seen her articles, but she had no actual clients to reference. Despite the skepticism from her husband, who questioned her career choice, India maintained her facade, claiming her services were fully booked with high-net-worth individuals.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s strategy has proven successful. She now serves a roster of remarkable clients, including former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey, focusing exclusively on those with annual earnings over $100 million. So what unique offerings does she provide that her clients can’t access themselves?
India attributes her success to her heartfelt approach to service. Having spent five years as a server, she understands the importance of caring for others and paying attention to their needs. Her expansive network, featuring over 2,000 connections throughout the hospitality sector, allows her to offer rare travel and dining experiences.
“My clients often have a vision, but they lack the tools, time, access, and creativity to achieve it,” India says. “One of my strengths is interpreting that vision and delivering it to them.”
Her services extend beyond simply booking exclusive experiences; India is committed to ensuring these moments are genuinely meaningful to her clients. For example, she has chosen not to sell reservations at the highly-acclaimed French Laundry restaurant in Napa, believing that experiences like those at Single Thread Farms are more compelling.
India’s focus on personalized experiences has resulted in unique events, such as a candlelight dinner in Versailles and brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. She often pairs meals with opportunities to meet influential figures, such as organizing meals with members of the Hermes and Fendi families.
At times, her clients’ requests can be quite simple. For instance, when Bush visited Ethiopia, India arranged for him to enjoy some comforts from home, like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, while also ensuring that he was welcomed by children wearing Texas Rangers baseball caps.
“My genuine care for people drives me,” India explains. She engages with various individuals, from cab drivers to restaurant staff, to curate intriguing options for her clients. “Life encompasses more than luxury and exclusive experiences. It includes authentic experiences, which my clients seek.”