When Jaclyn Sienna India founded her travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008, she focused on projecting success even when she had none. At that time, she often received calls from potential clients who mentioned articles they had seen about her work, prompting her to respond with claims of being fully booked, despite lacking any actual clients.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s strategy has paid off. She now serves numerous high-profile clients, including world leaders and celebrities such as Mariah Carey, all of whom have annual incomes exceeding $100 million. Recognizing that these affluent individuals often have everything, India believes her role is to offer more than mere access; it’s about genuine care and understanding.
India emphasizes the importance of fostering relationships within the hospitality industry, boasting a “black book” filled with over 2,000 contacts that allows her to create extraordinary travel experiences for her clients. She understands that her clients often articulate their needs vaguely; therefore, she has a talent for translating those ideas into reality.
Her focus is not solely on luxury; she strives to deliver personalized experiences that resonate with her clients. India has opted not to recommend certain high-status venues if she feels they lack excitement or uniqueness. For example, while she recognizes the prestige of French Laundry, she prefers to promote what she considers more innovative dining experiences, like Single Thread Farms.
India’s service has included arranging extraordinary events, such as a candlelit dinner in Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. She also seeks to enrich her clients’ experiences by facilitating lunches with influential families, including the Hermes and Fendi families.
Occasionally, her clients request simpler comforts. For instance, when former President George W. Bush visited Ethiopia, India ensured he had familiar foods, such as peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, and arranged for local children to greet him wearing Texas Rangers caps.
Ultimately, India’s philosophy centers around genuine human connection; she believes that the most rewarding experiences encompass more than just luxury—they involve authenticity and meaningful interactions.