In 2008, Jaclyn Sienna India established Sienna Charles, her boutique travel concierge service, with the intention of projecting success even before it was realized.
Reflecting on her early days, India recounted how her husband questioned her decision to take calls from potential clients, despite having no actual clientele. She would respond to inquiries from people interested in visiting Disney or planning weekend trips to New Jersey by claiming to be fully booked with high-net-worth clients.
Sixteen years later, her strategy of “faking it until you make it” has proven successful. Today, India serves a prestigious roster of clients that includes multiple world leaders and celebrities like Mariah Carey, all of whom earn more than $100 million annually. With such affluent clientele, one might wonder what unique offerings India has.
Her approach focuses on understanding and meeting the specific needs and desires of her clients, emphasizing the importance of care and empathy in her work. India draws from her background as a server to connect with her clients and create memorable experiences tailored to them.
Sienna Charles features an extensive network of over 2,000 industry relationships, encompassing yachts, luxury hotels, and fine dining establishments. This network enables India to craft unique travel experiences that go beyond what her clients could organize themselves.
She explains, “My clients describe their vision, and while they can see it, they often lack the tools, time, or creativity to bring it to fruition. My skill lies in decoding that vision and delivering it.”
Importantly, India prioritizes creating authentic experiences rather than simply securing access to exclusive venues. For instance, while some may consider dining at the French Laundry in California a pinnacle experience, India prefers to offer alternatives that she finds more compelling. “I think what they’re doing at Single Thread Farms is far more interesting,” she suggested.
Her commitment to delivering personalized experiences has led to some extraordinary arrangements, like a candlelit dinner in Versailles or brunch atop the Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, she often arranges for clients to meet influential figures during meals, such as a breakfast with the Hermes family or lunch with the Fendi family in Rome.
Yet, her services can also cater to simpler requests. When former President George W. Bush visited Ethiopia, India ensured he enjoyed favorite comforts from home, such as peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, and was welcomed by local children in Texas Rangers caps.
“I genuinely care about people,” India remarked. Her day often involves conversing with various individuals, including cab drivers and restaurant staff, to discover the most unique experiences available. “The world is not just luxury or fancy experiences; it encompasses everything, and my clients seek authentic experiences.”