Jaclyn Sienna India launched her travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008, determined to succeed despite having no clients at the start. Initially, she faced skepticism from her husband, who was baffled by phone calls from potential customers expressing interest in luxury experiences, which she had to turn away due to her nonexistent client base.
Fast forward sixteen years, India has built a prestigious clientele that includes world leaders like former President George W. Bush and celebrities such as Mariah Carey. Her services cater exclusively to individuals earning over $100 million annually, providing unique experiences that go beyond what her wealthy clients could arrange for themselves.
India emphasizes that her success lies not in connections or power, but in her caring approach. Drawing on her prior experience as a server, she understands the importance of making personal connections and genuinely caring for her clients’ needs. She has cultivated a vast network with more than 2,000 contacts in the hospitality industry, including access to exclusive hotels, yachts, and high-end restaurants.
Understanding her clients’ desires is a key part of her service. “They already have a vision,” she noted, “but they lack the time and creativity to realize it.” India prides herself on translating their aspirations into unique experiences, whether that means arranging a dinner in Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe.
While luxury is important, India focuses on creating meaningful experiences rather than just glamorous ones. For example, she prefers to recommend dining experiences that resonate with authenticity, even turning down requests for highly acclaimed venues if she believes there are better options available.
Her attention extends beyond luxury, as evidenced by her efforts to provide comfort to former President Bush during a trip to Ethiopia, where she arranged for him to enjoy familiar foods and local connections.
Ultimately, India highlights the importance of authenticity in travel experiences. She engages with everyone around her—from cab drivers to restaurant staff—to uncover the most interesting options for her clients. “The world is not just luxury,” she states. “It’s everything, and my clients desire authentic experiences.”