Jaclyn Sienna India founded her boutique travel concierge, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with the intention of “faking it until she made it.” Initially, she had no clients and often told potential customers that her services were fully booked. Sixteen years later, her approach has proven successful, as she now serves high-profile clients, including world leaders and celebrities like Mariah Carey.
India targets individuals who earn over $100 million a year, individuals who typically have access to exclusive experiences but may lack the time or creativity to plan them. She emphasizes that her strength lies in care and understanding, developed through her previous experience as a server. She has built a network of over 2,000 connections within the hospitality industry, enabling her to craft unique travel and dining experiences.
Her services extend beyond simply securing reservations at upscale venues. India prioritizes delivering genuine and worthwhile experiences tailored to her clients’ desires. For instance, she does not promote dining at the acclaimed French Laundry restaurant, believing it lacks excitement compared to other options, like Single Thread Farms.
She has arranged remarkable events for her clients, such as a candlelight dinner in Versailles and brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, India often finds ways to connect her clients with notable figures, providing experiences like breakfast with the Hermes family and lunch with the Fendi family in Rome.
At times, her clients seek more familiar comforts, which she accommodates; for example, she ensured former President Bush had peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer during his visit to Ethiopia, where he was also welcomed by local children wearing Texas Rangers caps.
India emphasizes that her goal is to offer authentic experiences, valuing interactions with everyone from cab drivers to restaurant staff to uncover the best options for her clients.