Jaclyn Sienna India launched her travel concierge business, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with the ambition to succeed despite starting from scratch. Initially, she faced skepticism from her husband as inquiries poured in from potential clients who were impressed by her media presence but were met with the reality of no existing clientele.
Fast forward sixteen years, and her strategy of presenting herself confidently has yielded significant results. India’s client roster includes prominent figures, such as former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey, catering exclusively to individuals who generate over $100 million annually.
India emphasizes that her success stems from her ability to care for her clients, stating, “It’s care. It’s leading from the heart.” Drawing on her prior experience as a server, she recognizes the importance of understanding her clients’ needs and desires. Her impressive network includes over 2,000 connections in the hospitality sector, which allows her to craft unique travel and dining experiences.
“My clients explain what they’re looking to achieve. They already see it, but they just don’t have the tools or creativity,” she says. One of her strengths is interpreting those desires into reality with little direction.
Rather than simply offering access to the most luxurious venues, India focuses on ensuring her clients have truly meaningful experiences. For instance, she prefers recommending innovative dining in places like Single Thread Farms over more commonly known establishments like French Laundry.
Her services have included arranging extraordinary experiences such as a candlelight dinner in Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe, alongside opportunities to mingle with influential personalities like the Hermes and Fendi families.
However, she also understands the value of simpler comforts. When Bush visited Ethiopia, she ensured he had familiar snacks like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, complemented by a heartwarming welcome from local children wearing Texas Rangers caps.
India’s approach centers around authenticity and genuine human connection, stating, “The world is not just luxury. The world is not just fancy experiences. It’s everything and [my clients] want authentic experiences.”