Jaclyn Sienna India launched her boutique travel concierge, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with the resolve to “fake it until you make it.” Initially, her husband was skeptical of her venture, often hearing requests from potential clients eager for vacations, while she had no actual clientele to speak of.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India has successfully transformed her initial bravado into a thriving business, boasting notable clients including prominent world leaders and celebrities like Mariah Carey. Today, her services cater exclusively to individuals with annual earnings surpassing $100 million, catering to an elite who seem to have everything.
India emphasizes that her role extends beyond providing luxury; it’s about care and genuine connection. Drawing from her experience as a server, she understands the importance of attentiveness and empathy in catering to high-profile clients. Her extensive network—commonly referred to as her “black book”—features over 2,000 contacts in the hospitality sector, allowing her to craft unforgettable travel and dining experiences.
Rather than simply arranging access to exclusive venues, India focuses on creating meaningful experiences. For instance, she questions the appeal of dining at the renowned French Laundry in Napa, preferring to recommend more unique culinary experiences nearby.
Her creative approach has led to extraordinary moments for her clients, such as orchestrating a candlelit dinner at Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, she values the opportunity to connect clients with influential figures, having arranged breakfasts with members of the Hermes family and lunches with the Fendi family in Rome.
Sometimes, her arrangements emphasize comfort over opulence, as noted in her care for former President George W. Bush during his trip to Ethiopia, where she ensured he had familiar foods and experiences that reminded him of home.
India’s philosophy centers on the belief that luxury is not merely about extravagance but encompasses authentic experiences that resonate with her esteemed clients. She dedicates her day to engaging with everyone from cab drivers to restaurant staff, seeking out the most intriguing options for the people she serves.