Jaclyn Sienna India, who established Sienna Charles, her luxury travel concierge service, in 2008, initially relied on a strategy of confidence and perseverance. She faced skepticism, even from her husband, as she took calls from potential clients interested in travel while having no actual clients to show for her efforts.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India’s approach has proven successful, allowing her to serve a clientele that includes high-profile figures such as former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey. Her services cater to individuals earning over $100 million annually, a demographic that seemingly has access to everything. So, what sets India’s services apart?
India emphasizes the importance of genuine care in providing her services. Drawing from her experience as a server, she knows what motivates people and identifies that attentiveness is crucial in her business. With a vast network of over 2,000 contacts in the hospitality industry, India curates unique travel and dining experiences for her clients.
Her approach focuses on understanding the vision clients have for their travel goals, and, as she notes, many clients lack the time, tools, or creativity to realize them. One of her talents lies in interpreting their desires succinctly and delivering exceptional experiences.
However, India’s priority isn’t merely to secure reservations at the most prestigious places; she aims to ensure that each experience is meaningful. For instance, she does not recommend the high-profile French restaurant, French Laundry, considering it less exciting than alternatives like Single Thread Farms. Her goal is to provide clients with unique and memorable events, such as organizing a candlelight dinner at Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe.
India also looks to create personal connections for her clients, having arranged meals with prominent families like Hermes and Fendi. Yet, she also caters to simpler needs; when Bush visited Ethiopia, she ensured he had familiar comforts like peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, all while he was welcomed by local children donning Texas Rangers caps.
Through her interactions, India strives to uncover interesting opportunities for her clients, believing that luxury is just one aspect of a fulfilling experience. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, capturing the essence of travel beyond just high-end luxuries.