When Jaclyn Sienna India launched her luxury travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008, she had a bold approach: she decided to project confidence and expertise even before she had any clients. Initially, this strategy drew skepticism, especially from her husband, as she would receive calls from potential customers expressing interest after reading her articles. At the time, she had no clients to serve and would reply that they were fully booked with high-net-worth individuals.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s determination has led her to build a remarkable clientele that includes global leaders like former President George W. Bush and notable celebrities such as Mariah Carey. Her bespoke services cater to individuals earning over $100 million annually, who typically have access to everything money can buy. So what unique value does India offer her clients?
India believes that while her clients are influential and well-connected, the key to providing exceptional service is genuine care. Drawing from her experience as a server, she understands the nuances of human interaction and the importance of making clients feel valued. This aspect of her service is critical to her success.
Sienna Charles features an extensive network of over 2,000 contacts in the hospitality sector, which ranges from luxury hotels to exclusive restaurants and yacht providers. This resource allows her to craft unique travel experiences tailored to her clients’ desires.
Understanding her clients’ visions is another one of India’s strengths. She notes that while they often have ideas about what they want to achieve, they may lack the resources or creativity to bring those ideas to fruition. India excels at interpreting those visions and transforming them into reality.
Her focus is not only on providing access to exclusive venues but also on ensuring that each experience is meaningful. For instance, she does not promote dining at the renowned French Laundry in Napa, as she finds it less appealing compared to alternatives like Single Thread Farms, which she believes offers a more authentic experience.
India’s services often culminate in unforgettable experiences, such as arranging a candlelit dinner at Versailles or a brunch atop the Arc de Triomphe. She also emphasizes integrating personal encounters with influential figures, having organized meals with prominent families like Hermes and Fendi.
Moreover, she understands that sometimes her clients’ requests are simple. For instance, when Bush visited Ethiopia, she made sure he had familiar comforts like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, and arranged for him to be welcomed by children wearing Texas Rangers caps.
Ultimately, India’s approach combines luxury with authenticity. She maintains that the world of travel encompasses more than opulent experiences; it’s about genuine interactions and memorable moments that her clients truly cherish.