Jaclyn Sienna India founded her luxury travel concierge service, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with a bold approach of projecting success even when she was just starting out. Initially, she faced skepticism from her husband, as she would receive inquiries about travel from people who had seen her work, despite not yet having any clients to speak of. She managed to convince them that her services were in high demand, claiming to be fully booked with wealthy clients.
Fast forward to today, and her strategy of ‘faking it until making it’ has paid off. India now serves a clientele that includes influential figures such as former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey, catering to those with annual incomes exceeding $100 million. She is often asked what unique value she offers that her clients can’t secure themselves.
India emphasizes that the power and connections her clients possess are not always what lead to successful experiences. Instead, she believes in the importance of heartfelt service and personal attention. Drawing from her years as a server, she understands the nuances of human interaction, which she considers essential in her work.
She has cultivated an extensive network of over 2,000 contacts within the hospitality sector, ranging from yacht owners and luxury hotels to exclusive restaurants. This network allows her to create extraordinary travel and dining experiences tailored to her clients’ specific desires and visions.
Her philosophy focuses on quality rather than just exclusivity. For example, while she could easily secure reservations at high-profile places like French Laundry, she opts for venues that offer more engaging experiences, such as Single Thread Farms.
Her initiatives often result in unique events that go beyond mere luxury. One notable arrangement included a candlelight dinner at Versailles, while on another occasion, a client enjoyed brunch atop the Arc de Triomphe. India also arranges intimate meet-and-greets with remarkable personalities, like breakfasts with the Hermes family or lunches with the Fendi family in Rome.
Yet, her services sometimes cater to simpler comforts. When arranging a trip for Bush to Ethiopia, she made sure he had his favorite peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer on hand, matching it with a warm welcome from local children wearing Texas Rangers caps.
India’s approach is driven by genuine care for her clients. She actively engages with a variety of individuals—from cab drivers to restaurant staff—to curate the most enriching experiences. For her, the essence of service lies in crafting authentic moments, not just lavish escapades.