In 2008, Jaclyn Sienna India founded Sienna Charles, her boutique travel concierge service, with a fresh determination to succeed, despite starting with no clients. Initially, she would field calls from potential customers asking for recommendations, all while telling them her services were fully booked.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s perseverance has paid off. She now counts notable figures such as former President George W. Bush and pop star Mariah Carey among her clientele. Her focus is on high-net-worth individuals earning over $100 million annually, catering to those who seemingly have everything.
India explains that her clients may possess substantial influence and connections, but what truly drives success in her business is genuine care and attention. Drawing from her experience as a server, she has honed the ability to understand her clients’ desires and deliver tailored experiences that go beyond mere luxury.
With a “black book” containing over 2,000 contacts in the hospitality sector, India is skilled at crafting unique travel and dining outings. She observes that many clients describe their aspirations but lack the resources or creativity to bring them to fruition. Her knack for grasping their vision and executing it is one of her strongest attributes.
However, her mission extends beyond merely gaining access to exclusive locations; she aims to provide meaningful experiences. While she acknowledges the prestige of establishments like the French Laundry, she prefers to highlight other innovative offerings, citing Single Thread Farms as a more intriguing option.
India aligns her service with the individual preferences of her clients, often creating unforgettable moments. For example, she has organized a romantic candlelit dinner at Versailles and a brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. She also prioritizes unique social interactions, having arranged meals with the Hermes and Fendi families.
At times, her clients request simpler comforts, like ensuring Bush had favorite snacks during his trip to Ethiopia, where he was greeted by children wearing Texas Rangers caps. India emphasizes her commitment to authentic experiences, explaining that her insights come from engaging with everyone around her, from cab drivers to restaurant staff, thus discovering the true essence of travel beyond luxury.