In 2008, Jaclyn Sienna India established Sienna Charles, a boutique travel concierge, with a commitment to “fake it until you make it.” Initially, India had no clients but would confidently communicate with potential customers, claiming to be fully booked with high-profile clients. This strategy seems to have worked, as 16 years later, she now counts former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey among her clientele, who all have annual incomes exceeding $100 million.
India emphasizes that her success comes from providing care and understanding her clients’ needs. She has a knack for interpreting their visions and delivering experiences that they might not have been able to achieve on their own. With a “black book” of over 2000 contacts in the hospitality sector, she arranges unique travel and dining experiences, leveraging her extensive network to create memorable events.
India’s philosophy is not just about accessibility to lavish venues but ensuring that each experience is genuinely worthwhile. For instance, she doesn’t recommend the renowned French Laundry restaurant in Napa, believing other dining experiences, such as those at Single Thread Farms, are more intriguing.
She often coordinates exclusive events, like a candlelight dinner in Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. India also provides opportunities for clients to meet influential figures, including arranging meals with the Hermes and Fendi families.
Moreover, her services can cater to more straightforward requests, as evidenced by her attention to former President Bush’s comforts during a trip to Ethiopia, providing him with peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, along with a warm welcome from local children.
India stresses that her approach transcends luxury, focusing instead on authentic experiences that resonate with her clients, showcasing her genuine commitment to understanding and caring for their individual needs.