Jaclyn Sienna India established Sienna Charles, her luxury travel concierge service, in 2008 with a strong “fake it till you make it” mentality. At the beginning, she faced skepticism from others, including her husband, as she often turned down requests from people interested in travel arrangements, claiming she was too busy with high-net-worth clients, despite having none.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s strategy has proven successful. Her clientele now includes prominent figures such as former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey. She caters specifically to individuals who earn over $100 million annually, providing them with exclusive travel experiences that they might not be able to achieve on their own.
India believes that the key to her service lies in her heartfelt approach and understanding of people. Having worked as a server for five years, she emphasizes the importance of care and attention in her relationships. Her extensive network in the hospitality sector includes over 2,000 contacts that help her craft unique experiences for her clients.
Clients often share their aspirations with India, who excels at interpreting their desires and designing tailored experiences. While she acknowledges the appeal of high-status venues, like the French Laundry, she prefers to offer alternatives that might create more meaningful memories, such as experiences at Single Thread Farms.
India specializes in creating one-of-a-kind events for her clients. Notable experiences she has organized include a candlelight dinner at Versailles and brunch atop the Arc de Triomphe. She also likes to facilitate personal connections, such as arranging meals with well-known families involved in fashion.
At times, her clients request simpler comforts. For example, when arranging a trip for Bush to Ethiopia, India ensured he had peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer on hand, alongside welcoming gestures from local children.
Ultimately, India prioritizes authenticity over mere luxury in her offerings. She engages with people from all walks of life and values diverse experiences, aiming to provide her clients with genuine moments that resonate beyond just opulence.