Jaclyn Sienna India, the founder of Sienna Charles, a luxury travel concierge service established in 2008, initially faced skepticism from others, including her husband, as she navigated her early challenges. She often received inquiries from potential clients but frequently had to claim to be fully booked because, at the time, she had no clients at all.
Fast forward sixteen years, India’s strategy of projecting confidence has led to a flourishing business. Today, she has high-profile clients, including former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey, primarily serving those with annual incomes exceeding $100 million. This clientele already has access to many resources, prompting the question: what sets India’s services apart?
India emphasizes that while her clients wield significant influence and connections, the key to successful travel planning lies in empathy and personal attention. Drawing on her experience as a server, she understands the importance of catering to clients’ desires and making them feel valued.
Sienna Charles includes a vast network of over 2,000 contacts in the hospitality sector, such as luxury hotels, restaurants, and yacht services. This network allows India to craft bespoke travel and dining experiences tailored to her clients’ visions, even when they might lack the means or resources to realize them.
Her goal goes beyond merely securing reservations at exclusive venues; she aims to provide her clients with meaningful and memorable experiences. For instance, instead of promoting the renowned French Laundry restaurant, India believes the offerings at Single Thread Farms offer more excitement and creativity.
India is known for orchestrating unique events, such as a candlelight dinner at Versailles and brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. She often combines culinary experiences with opportunities to meet notable individuals, arranging breakfasts with the Hermes family and lunches with the Fendi family.
However, her services can be straightforward as well. During a trip to Ethiopia with Bush, she made sure he had familiar comforts like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer while arranging a warm welcome for him from local children wearing Texas Rangers caps.
Ultimately, India’s approach to hospitality transcends luxury, focusing instead on authentic experiences that resonate deeply with her clients. She maintains daily interactions with various people, from cab drivers to restaurant staff, seeking out unique opportunities that reflect the rich, diverse world beyond fine dining and opulence.