When Jaclyn Sienna India established Sienna Charles, her travel concierge service, in 2008, she adopted a “fake it till you make it” approach. This strategy raised eyebrows, notably from her husband, as calls flooded in from potential clients intrigued by her articles. Despite having no clients at the time, she confidently assured them her services were fully booked, catering to high-net-worth individuals.
Fast forward to the present day, India’s perseverance has led to extraordinary success. She now counts influential figures, including former President George W. Bush and pop icon Mariah Carey, among her clientele, all of whom have annual earnings exceeding $100 million. The question arises: what unique offerings does Sienna Charles provide that these accomplished individuals cannot secure themselves?
India’s philosophy is rooted in personal care and connection. Drawing on her five years as a server, she emphasizes the importance of understanding client needs on a deeper level. India believes that while her clients possess immense power and networks, it’s her heartfelt attention that truly makes a difference.
Sienna Charles boasts an extensive network within the hospitality sector, with over 2,000 relationships that facilitate extraordinary travel experiences—from yachts to high-end restaurants. India specializes in translating her clients’ visions into memorable realities, understanding their desires through brief conversations and providing them with experiences that exceed their expectations.
For India, luxury does not always equate to exclusivity. Instead, she curates experiences based on individual preferences. For example, while she could easily secure a table at the famed French Laundry, she prefers to recommend what she considers more engaging experiences, such as dining at Single Thread Farms.
Her tailored services have included once-in-a-lifetime moments such as private dinners in Versailles and brunch atop the Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, she often arranges connect moments with notable personalities, like meals with members of the Hermes and Fendi families.
Sometimes, her clients prefer more straightforward comforts. For instance, when President Bush visited Ethiopia, India ensured he felt at home by providing his favorite peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, along with a warm welcome from local children in Texas Rangers hats.
India’s approach highlights that true luxury incorporates authentic experiences and emotions. She underscores the importance of genuine connections, mentioning that her day involves engaging with everyone around her—from cab drivers to restaurant staff—to uncover unique options for her clients.
This narrative illustrates that even in the world of elite travel planning, it’s the human element—thoughtfulness, empathy, and genuine concern—that creates memorable experiences. India’s journey from humble beginnings to catering to some of the world’s wealthiest individuals serves as a reminder that success is not solely defined by wealth or status but by one’s ability to connect with others on a meaningful level.
Overall, India’s story offers a hopeful message about the importance of authenticity in luxury services and the potential of following one’s vision with persistence and heart.