Jaclyn Sienna India launched her luxury travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with a bold determination to succeed. Initially, she faced skepticism, even from her husband, as she pretended to be busy catering to high-net-worth clients despite having none.
Fast forward sixteen years, her strategy of “faking it until making it” has worked remarkably well. Today, India counts numerous influential figures among her clients, including world leaders and celebrities, who earn upwards of $100 million annually. This clientele has access to everything, so what does India offer that they cannot procure for themselves?
India emphasizes that her approach goes beyond mere connections; it’s about genuine care and understanding. With a background as a server, she believes that the key to success in her business lies in understanding human emotions and fostering meaningful relationships. Her extensive network includes over 2,000 contacts in the hospitality industry, which allows her to curate unique travel experiences for her clients.
She explained that her clients often have a vision for their experiences but lack the means to realize it fully, stating, “One of my gifts has been understanding that vision with only a few words, and then delivering that to them.”
While her aim is to provide exclusive and glamorous experiences, India prioritizes the quality and authenticity of those moments. For instance, she chooses not to offer reservations at the well-known French Laundry restaurant, believing that more unique dining experiences, like those at Single Thread Farms, are far more compelling.
India’s services often include extraordinary events, such as orchestrating a candlelight dinner in Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. In addition to remarkable meals, she also facilitates personal connections, arranging engagements with notable figures like the Hermes and Fendi families.
Sometimes, however, her clients seek comfort in familiarity. For example, when former President George W. Bush visited Ethiopia, India made sure he had his favorite snacks and was warmly welcomed by local children.
Her passion for her work comes from a deep care for people, as she interacts with everyone from cab drivers to restaurant staff to uncover the most enriching experiences. She encapsulates her philosophy by stating that luxury is not the only aspect of travel; her clients are also in search of authenticity in their adventures.