In 2008, Jaclyn Sienna India launched Sienna Charles, her boutique travel concierge service, with the mindset of “fake it until you make it.” Initially, she faced skepticism from her husband as she took calls from potential clients expressing interest in luxury travel, while she had no actual clients to accommodate.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s strategy has proven successful. She now serves high-profile clients, including former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey, all of whom are part of an elite group earning over $100 million annually. India identifies her unique value in providing what her affluent clients cannot achieve alone.
According to India, her strength lies in empathy and personal attention, cultivated through her past experience as a server. This background has equipped her to understand the desires and preferences of her clients. Sienna Charles boasts an extensive network in the hospitality sector, giving India the ability to craft unforgettable travel and dining experiences.
Her clients, though powerful and well-connected, often need assistance in executing their visions. India listens closely to their goals and translates them into exceptional experiences. For instance, while acclaimed restaurants are sought after, she prioritizes genuine experiences over mere luxury. She has turned down recommendations for renowned establishments like French Laundry in favor of more intriguing options.
India’s offerings include unique dining events, such as a candlelight dinner at Versailles and brunch atop the Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, she curates experiences with influential figures, having organized meals with the Hermes and Fendi families.
Even straightforward requests hold value; when preparing for Bush’s trip to Ethiopia, India arranged for familiar comforts like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer. She ensures her clients encounter authentic experiences, emphasizing that luxury is only part of her service. By engaging with various individuals in her network, she discovers the best options to meet her clients’ needs, highlighting the importance of sincerity in her approach.