When Jaclyn Sienna India launched her travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008, she was committed to making a mark in the industry despite facing initial challenges. Her husband was skeptical as they received inquiries from potential clients who had seen her articles, while India was still struggling to build her clientele, often responding with excuses about being fully booked.
Fast forward sixteen years, and her perseverance has paid off. India now counts former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey among her high-profile clients, who each earn over $100 million annually. This elite clientele often has access to everything, but India offers something unique: personalized service driven by genuine care and understanding.
“I understand what makes people tick,” India notes, drawing from her background as a server for five years. Her approach focuses on building relationships within the hospitality sector, tapping into an extensive network of over 2,000 contacts, including luxury hotels, yachts, and premium dining spots. This foundation allows her to create extraordinary travel experiences tailored to her clients’ aspirations.
Her clients, while powerful and connected, often lack the time, creativity, or means to realize their visions. India prides herself on interpreting their desires and delivering memorable experiences. For her, it’s not just about access to the most opulent venues; it’s about ensuring that the experiences are meaningful. For instance, she chooses not to promote the renowned French Laundry restaurant, believing alternatives like Single Thread Farms offer more intriguing options.
India is skilled in crafting exclusive moments, such as organizing candlelight dinners in Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. She often enhances these experiences by connecting clients with influential figures, having arranged breakfasts with the Hermes family and luncheons with the Fendi family in Rome.
At times, her clients’ needs are simpler. When Bush visited Ethiopia, India made sure he had familiar comforts like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, all while ensuring a heartwarming reception with local children wearing Texas Rangers caps.
“I genuinely care about people,” India reflects on her mission, which involves engaging with everyone she meets, from drivers to restaurant staff, to uncover interesting options for her clients. Her philosophy emphasizes that the world of luxury is not solely defined by opulence — it encompasses a broader spectrum of authentic experiences that her clients seek.