Jaclyn Sienna India launched her luxury travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008, with a bold strategy of projecting success before achieving it.
Initially, India faced skepticism, even from her husband, who found it puzzling when potential clients would reach out after reading about her in the media, saying things like, “I want to go to Disney,” or planning a weekend in New Jersey. India would respond with claims of being fully booked with high-net-worth clients, despite having no clientele at the time.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s perseverance has paid off. She now serves a roster of high-profile clients, including world leaders like former President George W. Bush and celebrities such as Mariah Carey. Her luxury services cater to individuals who earn over $100 million annually, individuals who seemingly have everything. So, what does India offer that is beyond their reach?
India highlights the importance of genuine care and understanding in her service. Drawing from her experience as a server for five years prior to establishing her business, she emphasizes her ability to connect with clients and anticipate their needs. “It’s leading from the heart,” she notes, asserting that paying attention to clients is essential.
Sienna Charles has developed an extensive network of over 2,000 relationships in the hospitality sector, ranging from yachts and hotels to upscale restaurants. This expertise in relationship building allows India to curate exceptional travel and dining experiences for her clients.
“My clients often have their own vision,” she explained, “but they lack the time, tools, and creativity to bring it to life.” India’s unique skill lies in understanding these visions through brief conversations and delivering results that exceed expectations.
While she aims for exclusive and glamorous experiences, India prioritizes meaningful engagements. For instance, when discussing dining options, she dismissed the appeal of a three-Michelin star restaurant, believing that the offerings at a lesser-known eatery nearby were far more intriguing.
India has created memorable, bespoke events for her clients, such as intimate candlelit dinners in Versailles and brunches on the Arc de Triomphe. She also arranges exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities with prominent figures, including breakfast with the Hermes family and lunch with the Fendi family in Rome.
At times, her clients’ requests are more straightforward. During Bush’s visit to Ethiopia, she ensured he had familiar comforts—like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer—while he was welcomed by local children wearing Texas Rangers caps.
“I genuinely care about people,” she says, underscoring her commitment to authentic experiences. India engages with everyone from cab drivers to restaurant staff to uncover the most interesting options for her clients, recognizing that the essence of travel transcends luxury, encompassing a rich tapestry of genuine human experiences.