Jaclyn Sienna India, founder of the luxury travel concierge Sienna Charles, has turned her initial struggles into a successful business serving high-net-worth clients. Established in 2008, India began with little more than a vision and a determination to “fake it until she made it.” Despite having no clientele at the time, she projected an image of exclusivity, often telling prospective clients that her services were fully booked.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India now caters to elite clients, including world leaders and celebrities who earn over $100 million annually. Despite the wealth and power of her clientele, India emphasizes that her success lies in providing exceptional, personalized experiences, rather than just access to the most glamorous venues.
She attributes her unique approach to her experience as a server, which taught her to understand people’s needs and desires. This insight allows her to curate bespoke travel and dining experiences that go beyond luxurious settings. Her extensive network—over 2,000 relationships within the hospitality industry—enables her to craft extraordinary moments, such as candlelight dinners in Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe.
Importantly, India prioritizes the authenticity of experiences over mere extravagance. She avoids recommending places like the three-Michelin-star restaurant French Laundry, preferring instead to suggest hidden gems like Single Thread Farms. Her attention extends to ensuring her clients feel at home, demonstrated when she arranged comfort foods for George W. Bush during a trip to Ethiopia.
Ultimately, India’s approach revolves around genuine care for her clients and a deep understanding of their unique preferences. By treating every interaction as an opportunity to uncover the best experiences, she offers more than just luxury; she creates memorable, meaningful moments that resonate deeply with her clientele.
This story exemplifies how passion, dedication, and the desire to connect can transform challenges into thriving opportunities. It’s a testament to the belief that authenticity and personal touch can elevate one’s offerings, regardless of the industry.