Jaclyn Sienna India established her travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with the ambitious mindset of “faking it until making it.” Initially, she faced skepticism, including from her husband, as she would take calls from potential clients expressing interest based on her articles, despite having no real clientele at that time.
Now, 16 years later, her strategy has proven successful. India boasts a roster of high-profile clients, including multiple world leaders and celebrities like Mariah Carey. Her exclusive services cater to individuals earning over $100 million annually, people who can seemingly have it all. However, India believes her offerings stretch beyond what her clients can acquire independently.
India emphasizes the importance of care in her business, stating, “My clients are way more powerful than me… But that’s not what gets things done. It’s care.” Drawing on her background as a server, she underlines the significance of understanding client needs and establishing genuine connections.
Her extensive network, often referred to as a “black book,” includes over 2,000 contacts within the hospitality sector, enabling her to craft unique travel experiences tailored to her clients’ desires. “One of my gifts has been understanding that vision with only a few words,” she noted.
India aims to provide memorable experiences that go beyond merely accessing luxurious venues. For instance, she prefers to recommend distinctive options, such as Single Thread Farms over the more conventional French Laundry, emphasizing that an enjoyable experience doesn’t necessarily stem from prestige.
Her services often involve creating extraordinary events, such as a candlelight dinner in Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, she has facilitated meals with prominent figures, including breakfasts with the Hermes family and lunches with the Fendi family in Rome.
Despite the high-profile nature of her clientele, India also recognizes simpler needs. For example, when former President George W. Bush visited Ethiopia, she arranged for familiar comforts like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, enhancing his experience with local culture through Texas Rangers baseball caps worn by children.
Ultimately, India is devoted to providing authentic experiences, believing that the value of travel extends beyond luxury. She constantly engages with diverse individuals, from cab drivers to restaurant staff, to uncover unique opportunities for her clients. “The world is not just luxury. The world is not just fancy experiences. It’s everything,” she concludes.