Jaclyn Sienna India launched her travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with a commitment to “fake it until you make it.” Initially, her husband doubted her abilities as they received inquiries from potential clients, which she often had to decline by claiming they were fully booked even though she had no clients at the time.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s perseverance has paid off. She now serves high-profile clients, including world leaders and celebrities, who earn over $100 million annually. Her services are tailored to a clientele that already possesses nearly everything, raising the question of what unique offerings she provides.
India attributes her success to her genuine care for her clients. Drawing from her experience as a server, she understands the importance of personal connections and attentiveness. She has cultivated a vast network of over 2,000 relationships within the hospitality sector, including high-end hotels, restaurants, and yacht services, allowing her to curate exceptional travel experiences.
She emphasizes the importance of understanding clients’ aspirations. Many have a vision but lack the resources or creativity to achieve it. India prides herself on interpreting that vision and delivering tailored experiences. While she has access to exclusive venues, her focus is on providing unique and meaningful experiences that differ from typical luxury offerings.
For example, while she could easily secure reservations at renowned restaurants like the French Laundry, she prefers to recommend places that she finds more captivating, such as Single Thread Farms. Her goal is to create memorable moments, sometimes arranging extraordinary settings like a candlelight dinner in Versailles or brunch atop the Arc de Triomphe.
Additionally, India often incorporates personal connections into dining experiences, organizing meals with influential families, such as Hermes and Fendi. However, she acknowledges that some requests may be simpler, recalling a time when she provided former President George W. Bush with familiar comforts during his visit to Ethiopia.
India’s approach reflects a commitment to authenticity and a deep understanding of her clients’ desires beyond just luxury, indicating that meaningful experiences are at the heart of her concierge service.