When Jaclyn Sienna India started her luxury travel concierge business, Sienna Charles, in 2008, she adopted an ambitious mindset of “fake it until you make it.” Initially, she faced skepticism, including from her husband, as her early days involved accommodating requests from potential clients without actually having any clients of her own.
Today, over sixteen years later, her strategy has proved successful. India now caters to high-profile individuals, including former President George W. Bush and notable celebrities, offering exclusive travel experiences to clients who earn upwards of $100 million annually. In a highly competitive market, she focuses on delivering personalized service that sets her apart from other luxury providers.
India emphasizes the importance of genuine care and emotional intelligence in her approach to client relations. Drawing from her five years of experience as a server, she understands the nuances of catering to diverse personalities and preferences. This relationship-building has enabled her to curate exceptional travel and dining experiences for her clients.
Her extensive contacts in the hospitality industry allow her to provide access to unique venues and events. She prides herself on interpreting her clients’ visions and translating them into reality. However, her goal extends beyond simply securing reservations at high-end establishments; she aims to create meaningful, memorable experiences.
For example, while some may hold the three-Michelin star restaurant French Laundry in high regard, India believes that other dining options, such as Single Thread Farms, offer more intriguing experiences and does not promote places she finds less exciting.
India’s offerings often include extraordinary touchpoints, such as a candlelight dinner in Versailles or brunch atop the Arc de Triomphe. Moreover, she has facilitated meetings between clients and influential figures, including members of the Hermes and Fendi families.
At times, her clients desire simpler comforts. During Bush’s trip to Ethiopia, India ensured he had familiar items like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, alongside the heartwarming sight of local children wearing Texas Rangers caps.
India’s approach is rooted in a genuine passion for people and their stories. She actively engages with various individuals throughout her day, from cab drivers to restaurant staff, shaping a more authentic travel experience for her clients. To her, luxury is not just about opulence—it encompasses genuine encounters and diverse experiences.