Jaclyn Sienna India launched her travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with the mindset of “faking it until making it.” Initially struggling, she would receive calls from potential clients who had seen her articles, expressing interest in trips to places like Disney or New Jersey, despite having no actual clients at the time.
Fast forward sixteen years, India now serves multiple high-profile clients, including former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey. Her clientele consists of individuals earning over $100 million annually, implying that they could arrange their own travel plans. However, India believes her unique offerings lie in the personal touch she provides.
She emphasizes that while her clients possess power and connections, true results come from genuine care and understanding. Having worked as a server for five years, India learned the importance of attentiveness and empathy towards others.
Sienna Charles boasts an extensive network encompassing over 2,000 contacts within the luxury travel and hospitality sectors, enabling India to craft bespoke travel and dining experiences. She adeptly captures her clients’ visions, even if they struggle to articulate them, ensuring she meets their needs creatively and thoughtfully.
India’s approach does not merely focus on securing access to lavish venues; she prioritizes creating meaningful experiences. For instance, she refrains from promoting the renowned French Laundry restaurant, finding it unexciting compared to other options like Single Thread Farms, which she considers more innovative.
Her services often result in exclusive and memorable events, such as arranging a candlelight dinner in Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. She also curates experiences that connect clients with notable figures, having facilitated meals with the Hermes and Fendi families.
Sometimes, however, her clients desire simpler comforts. When Bush visited Ethiopia, she ensured he had his favorite peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer while being welcomed by local children in Texas Rangers baseball caps.
Ultimately, India’s philosophy centers on authentic experiences. She interacts with everyone from cab drivers to restaurant staff to uncover unique options for her clients, believing that the essence of travel lies beyond luxury—it’s about genuine, heartfelt experiences.