Jaclyn Sienna India launched her luxury travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with the mindset of “fake it until you make it.” Facing skepticism from her husband as she initially had no clients, she managed to secure calls from potential clients referencing her work. “I was like, ‘Oh, I’m sorry, we’re so busy, we’re really sold out this season with high-net-worth people,’” she recalled.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s persistence has paid off, attracting a clientele that includes former President George W. Bush and celebrities such as Mariah Carey. She caters exclusively to individuals earning over $100 million annually, providing experiences that go beyond what they could organize themselves.
India emphasizes the importance of genuine care in her services. Drawing from her five years as a server before launching her business, she notes that understanding people’s needs and paying attention to detail are critical. Sienna Charles has cultivated a network of over 2,000 connections in the hospitality sector, including luxury yachts, hotels, and upscale dining.
Her unique approach involves interpreting her clients’ visions based on minimal input and crafting tailored experiences that fulfill their desires. While she prioritizes their individual preferences over mere luxury, she is not afraid to pass on offers that don’t resonate with her own standards of excitement. For instance, she chose not to recommend the renowned French Laundry restaurant, believing that alternatives like Single Thread Farms offer more captivating experiences.
India’s creativity shines through in her ability to arrange exclusive events. Notable experiences include a candlelight dinner in Versailles and brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. She also facilitates meetings with influential figures, such as breakfasts and lunches with the Hermes and Fendi families.
At times, her clients desire simple comforts; when Bush visited Ethiopia, she ensured he had access to peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, and he was welcomed by children wearing Texas Rangers baseball caps.
India’s dedication to her clients is evident in her interactions with various people throughout her day, from cab drivers to hospitality staff, always seeking the most authentic and engaging experiences. “The world is not just luxury,” she explains. “It’s everything, and my clients want authentic experiences.”