When Jaclyn Sienna India launched her travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008, she aimed to project confidence despite a lack of clients. Reflecting on her early days, she recalls how her husband doubted her, as they received numerous inquiries from individuals interested in vacation experiences that she couldn’t fulfill due to her nonexistent client base.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India has built a successful business, attracting high-profile clients, including former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey. Her clientele consists of individuals generating over $100 million annually, individuals who seemingly have access to everything. However, India differentiates her services by offering a personal touch and genuine care that she believes make a difference.
India emphasizes that while her clients hold significant power and connections, achieving their goals often requires more than influence; it involves heartfelt service. Drawing on her five years of experience as a server, she understands the importance of attentiveness and empathy.
Her extensive network includes over 2,000 contacts in the hospitality sector, allowing her to craft unique travel and dining experiences. India listens closely to her clients’ desires and is adept at translating their vague ideas into reality.
While India provides access to luxurious venues, her priority is ensuring that experiences are meaningful as well. For instance, she questions the allure of certain well-known restaurants, opting instead to recommend lesser-known but intriguing alternatives that she believes offer more value.
India also specializes in creating distinctive, once-in-a-lifetime events for her clients. For example, she has arranged romantic dinners in places like Versailles and brunches atop the Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, she has facilitated personal interactions with notable figures, such as breakfasts with the Hermes family and lunches with Fendi family members.
However, sometimes her clients seek simpler comforts. During a trip to Ethiopia, she ensured President Bush had familiar foods like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, and even arranged for local children to greet him wearing Texas Rangers caps.
Ultimately, India’s philosophy centers around authenticity and meaningful experiences. She takes the time to connect with everyone from drivers to restaurant staff to uncover the most engaging options for her clients. For her, the essence of travel goes beyond luxury; it encompasses genuine experiences that resonate on a personal level.