Jaclyn Sienna India launched her boutique travel concierge, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with the mindset of “fake it until you make it.” At the start, she faced skepticism, even from her husband, as she took calls from potential clients looking for travel assistance, all while having no clients of her own.
Fast forward sixteen years, India has built a renowned clientele that includes numerous world leaders, such as former President George W. Bush, and celebrities like Mariah Carey. Her services cater to individuals with annual earnings exceeding $100 million, a demographic that often seeks exclusive experiences not easily accessible to them.
India attributes her success to her ability to connect on a personal level. She emphasizes the importance of understanding her clients’ needs and delivering tailored experiences. Drawing from her experience as a server, she knows how to engage with people and ensure they feel valued.
Sienna Charles is distinguished by a vast network of over 2,000 contacts in the hospitality sector, which allows India to create unique travel and dining experiences for her clients. She understands that while her clients may possess power and connections, they often lack the creativity or time to fulfill their aspirations.
Her mission extends beyond simply providing access to the most high-profile venues. She aims to ensure that the experiences are meaningful and memorable. For instance, she considers offering dining options at well-known establishments like the French Laundry in Napa as less appealing compared to more innovative venues.
India has facilitated exceptional one-of-a-kind events for her clients, such as organizing a candlelight dinner in Versailles and arranging brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, she finds ways to connect clients with influential figures, having arranged meals with prominent families in the luxury sector.
However, India also recognizes that her clients sometimes seek simple comforts. When Bush visited Ethiopia, she ensured he had familiar items like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, greeting him with local children wearing Texas Rangers caps.
With a focus on authentic experiences, India interacts with everyone from cab drivers to restaurant staff to discover unique options for her clients. She believes that the world offers a variety of experiences beyond luxury, and her clients appreciate the genuine interactions that enrich their travels.