Jaclyn Sienna India launched her boutique travel concierge, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with a vision to create exceptional experiences, even when she had no clients initially. With her husband’s skepticism, she often told prospective clients that she was fully booked, despite starting from scratch.
Fast forward sixteen years, and India has successfully built a remarkable client list, including high-profile figures such as former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey. Her services cater exclusively to ultra-high-net-worth individuals, those earning over $100 million annually. The question arises: what can she offer them that they can’t obtain on their own?
India attributes her success to her personalized approach. She believes her focus on genuine care and connection is key. “My clients are incredibly powerful and connected, but it’s the personal touch that truly fosters success,” she stated. With a background as a server, she emphasizes understanding the nuances of human interaction.
Sienna Charles is known for its extensive network within the hospitality industry, boasting a directory of over 2,000 relationships that enable India to tailor unique travel and dining experiences for her clientele. “Clients often have a vision for their experiences, but they lack the necessary tools, time, or creativity to realize it,” she explained. Her talent lies in grasping this vision quickly and translating it into fulfilling experiences.
India prioritizes creating memorable experiences rather than just sending clients to the most exclusive spots. For instance, she does not promote the highly acclaimed French Laundry if it doesn’t align with what she believes is a truly exciting experience. Instead, she prefers to highlight other unique dining options, like Single Thread Farms.
Many of her events stand out as extraordinary; she once organized a candlelit dinner in Versailles and even arranged brunch for a client atop the Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, she pairs exclusive meals with encounters featuring notable personalities, such as breakfasts with the Hermes family or lunches with the Fendi family in Rome.
Yet, sometimes her clients’ desires are simpler. For example, when arranging a trip for Bush to Ethiopia, she made sure he had familiar comforts, including peanut butter and non-alcoholic beer, and arranged for children wearing Texas Rangers caps to greet him.
India emphasizes her dedication to authenticity, stating, “I genuinely care about people.” Her approach includes engaging with everyone from cab drivers to restaurant staff to uncover the best options for her clients. “The world encompasses more than luxury—it’s about real experiences that resonate,” she concluded.