When Jaclyn Sienna India founded Sienna Charles, her luxury travel concierge service, in 2008, she was committed to “fake it until she made it.” Initially, she faced skepticism, even from her husband, as she received inquiries from potential clients while not having any existing clientele to fulfill their requests.
Fast forward sixteen years, and the strategy has proven successful. India now serves high-profile clients, including former President George W. Bush and celebrities such as Mariah Carey, catering exclusively to those with annual earnings exceeding $100 million.
India emphasizes that it’s not merely her clients’ wealth or influence that drive their experiences, but rather the care and thoughtfulness she brings to her service. Drawing from her previous experience as a server, she highlights the importance of understanding human needs and desires.
Her company boasts an extensive network of over 2,000 relationships within the hospitality sector, allowing her to curate exclusive travel and dining experiences. She listens closely to her clients’ visions and offers the tools, access, and creativity to turn those dreams into reality.
While many seek extravagant experiences, India prioritizes meaningful engagement. For instance, she opts not to promote certain high-profile dining hotspots if she believes the experience lacks authenticity or excitement.
Her services have included arranging unique events, such as a candlelit dinner at Versailles and brunch atop the Arc de Triomphe. She often combines meals with opportunities to meet influential personalities, having organized gatherings with notable families like Hermes and Fendi.
On the other hand, some requests are simpler. When Bush traveled to Ethiopia, she ensured he had familiar comforts like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, enhancing his experience with local culture, such as children donning Texas Rangers caps.
Ultimately, India is dedicated to providing genuine, authentic experiences, believing that luxury is more than just opulence; it encompasses a variety of meaningful encounters. She invests time in connecting with diverse individuals to uncover the most intriguing options for her clients.