From Skepticism to Success: The Journey of a Luxury Travel Innovator

Jaclyn Sienna India, the founder of the boutique travel concierge Sienna Charles, started her business in 2008 with the determination to “fake it until you make it.” Early on, she faced skepticism, even from her husband, as clients reached out based on articles she had written, prompting her to claim that her services were fully booked despite having no clients at the time.

Fast-forward sixteen years, and India’s strategy has proven successful. Her client roster now includes multiple world leaders like former President George W. Bush and celebrities such as Mariah Carey. She specializes in assisting high-net-worth individuals who earn over $100 million annually, offering them unique experiences that they can’t easily arrange for themselves.

India emphasizes that her services go beyond mere luxury; they are rooted in care and personal connection. With experience as a server for five years, she knows how to understand and respond to her clients’ needs. Her extensive network in the hospitality industry includes over 2,000 connections, allowing her to create tailored travel and dining experiences.

Rather than focusing solely on exclusive venues, India is dedicated to ensuring her clients have deeply meaningful experiences. For instance, she doesn’t promote the renowned French Laundry restaurant, believing that alternatives like Single Thread Farms provide more interesting experiences.

Her unique offerings often result in extraordinary events, such as a candlelit dinner in Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. She also arranges meals with notable figures, such as breakfasts with the Hermes family or lunches with the Fendi family in Rome.

Sometimes, her clients have simpler requests. When arranging a trip for President Bush to Ethiopia, she made sure he had peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, along with a special welcome from local children wearing Texas Rangers baseball caps.

India stresses her genuine interest in understanding people from various walks of life, from cab drivers to restaurant staff, as she seeks authentic experiences for her clients. She believes that the world is not just about luxury, but about a rich tapestry of experiences.

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