When Jaclyn Sienna India established Sienna Charles, a boutique travel concierge, in 2008, her mission was to “fake it until you make it.”
In the earlier days, India faced skepticism from her husband as she received inquiries from people interested in travel, despite lacking any actual clients. She often had to turn people away, fabricating stories about being fully booked with affluent clients.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s strategy has proven successful. She now counts high-profile individuals, including former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey, among her clientele. Her services cater exclusively to those with annual incomes exceeding $100 million.
India highlights that her approach transcends mere connections; it involves genuine care and emotional intelligence. Drawing from her years as a server, she understands the importance of engaging with people and prioritizing their needs.
Sienna Charles is known for its extensive network, with over 2,000 relationships within the hospitality sector, encompassing luxury hotels, yachts, and exclusive dining venues. This network empowers India to craft unique travel and culinary experiences for her clients, translating their visions into reality.
However, her aim isn’t simply to provide access to upscale venues. She emphasizes that the experiences must be meaningful and memorable. For instance, she has a discerning eye and is not afraid to bypass renowned establishments; rather than promoting the famous French Laundry in Napa Valley, she prefers to recommend lesser-known venues like Single Thread Farms, which she believes offer unique dining experiences.
Her commitment to creating exceptional and personalized events is undeniable. Past experiences have included a romantic candlelight dinner at the Palace of Versailles and brunch atop the Arc de Triomphe. India also seeks to integrate cultural interactions into her offerings, arranging meals with prominent figures such as the Hermes and Fendi families.
Not every request is extravagant; sometimes, clients seek the comforts of home, as demonstrated when she ensured President Bush had peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer during his trip to Ethiopia. Such gestures underline her dedication to authenticity in every experience she curates.
India passionately asserts that her role goes beyond luxury; it’s about providing authentic experiences that resonate with her clients’ true desires and interests. She actively engages with individuals from all walks of life, from cab drivers to restaurant staff, seeking out the most enriching opportunities for those she serves.