In today’s world, where wealth is escalating at an unprecedented pace, the desires and habits of the ultra-rich—particularly the 0.001%—are evolving dramatically. Gone are the days when their needs could be met by a butler as sharp-witted as PG Wodehouse’s Jeeves or hotel concierges clad in the unmistakable Les Clefs d’Or insignia. Today, a new industry has emerged that caters specifically to these affluent individuals, providing an extensive range of concierge services designed to meet their every whim.
The surge in luxury concierge services can be traced back to increasingly demanding lifestyles. As Jaclyn Sienna India, owner of the exclusive concierge firm Sienna Charles, notes, “Post-Covid, every restaurant is booked, every hotel is booked, prices have risen, and people are just dying for service more and more.” In this context, money equals time, and making those vital bookings can be incredibly time-consuming, prompting wealthy individuals to seek dedicated assistants to attend to such needs.
Sienna Charles, based in New York, operates on a membership model, catering to clients with a net worth of $100 million or more. Each member receives a highly personalized experience, with a team of 16 professionals working closely with a limited number of families—no more than 100 at any given time. India elaborates, “People really only want the right people at their events; they’re getting a bit more picky.” This careful selection process ensures that both clients and the concierge service derive maximum value from the relationship.
Clients are often people accustomed to delegation in their professional and personal lives. They appreciate a well-mannered, type-A approach that leaves room for creativity and spontaneity in travel plans. Membership fees at Sienna Charles are substantial, costing $75,000 for travel-only services and $150,000 for lifestyle services, showcasing the level of investment required for truly personalized service.
Since its founding in 2007, Sienna Charles has arranged exclusive access to world-renowned destinations, such as the Taj Mahal, the Louvre, and Machu Picchu. However, in an age where physical access is no longer enough, the company emphasizes the importance of connection. “People travel to pursue passions; that’s the No. 1 reason they’re leaving their house,” India states. Their services extend beyond mere reservations, offering experiences that forge connections to art, culture, and cuisine.
Luxury experiences have taken on a new meaning. Beyond simply eating at exclusive restaurants, Sienna Charles has organized lavish breakfasts cooked by Michelin-starred chefs atop Paris’s Arc de Triomphe and intimate dinners at Versailles after hours. “People are looking for something deeper,” India asserts, and there’s a growing demand for unique experiences that offer not just access, but also enrichment.
India’s journey into luxury started when she attended art school in Philadelphia and worked at the five-star restaurant Le Bec-Fin. It was there she fell in love with the affluent clientele and their extraordinary lifestyle. After a stint at a travel agency, she longed to offer more than basic travel arrangements and founded Sienna Charles, which has since become a mainstay among the wealthy elite.
The lifestyle of the jet setters closely follows a seasonal calendar, frequently moving from Europe in the summer to luxurious spots like the Hamptons for holidays and ski trips. Sienna Charles ensures that each experience is not just enjoyable, but worth their clients’ valuable time. “The calendar is anchored in those events and the destinations that are really hot,” India explains, identifying places like St. Tropez as hotspots for the affluent clientele.
One common request is securing last-minute tickets to coveted cultural and sporting events. However, it’s not solely about the seating arrangements; clients also expect an entire package, including pre-event preparations with stylists and reservations at the finest eateries. “It’s not just selling tickets, but being able to provide access,” India remarks. The experience must be seamless, catering to every aspect of a luxurious lifestyle.
As the nature of wealth changes, so do the needs of the ultra-rich. Concierge services now operate on a “minute-by-minute basis,” allowing flexibility and responsiveness that aligns with the fast-paced lifestyles of CEOs, entrepreneurs, and celebrities. “The reason it’s a benefit to be wealthy,” India states, “is freedom.”
Top Concierge Services in Luxury
Innerplace
Founded by Tim Badham in 2002, Innerplace has built a reputation among the elite in London for its unparalleled access to exclusive events. From top restaurants to awards shows, this tiered service offers unique opportunities tailored to each member’s desires, including last-minute tickets to the illustrious Glastonbury festival and private concerts. Innerplace’s personalized approach ensures that clients can live out their wildest dreams, from creating a bespoke superhero costume to securing coveted corporate experiences.
Knightsbridge Circle
Launched by Stuart McNeill in 2012, Knightsbridge Circle focuses on delivering bespoke services by pairing each member with a personal manager. Limited to just 70 members, this service specializes in luxury travel experiences, securing unforgettable moments—like a private concert by Andrea Bocelli and an audience with Pope Francis. Knightsbridge Circle’s members typically spend a minimum of £500,000 on travel annually, making it one of the most exclusive options available.
Quintessentially
As it nears its 25th anniversary, Quintessentially continues to thrive with 450 staff and 35 global offices. Under CEO Darren Ellis, the company offers a dedicated lifestyle manager for each member, creating personalized experiences grounded in deep knowledge of their preferences and tastes. With a surge in private membership, Quintessentially has adapted by launching an app to enhance accessibility and responsiveness, while maintaining its core values of exceptional service.
S2 Lifestyle Management
Founded by Goran Svilar and Ali Samli, S2 Lifestyle Management curates an extraordinary service, adapting to clients’ unique needs through in-depth consultations. This multidisciplinary team is always on call, covering everything from daily errands to extravagant travel plans. Clients have used S2 to facilitate notable experiences, such as flying a rare Hermès Birkin to Paris for a grand anniversary dinner. Their annual memberships cater specifically to high-profile, demanding clients.
Ellidore
Launched in 2014 by Simon Blackford and Tom de Stacpoole, Ellidore focuses on providing luxurious events, travel, and lifestyle services to ultra-high-net-worth individuals. With an expanding international presence, Ellidore offers unique experiences like private viewings of famous landmarks and intricate travel itineraries. The annual membership fee depends on the level of personalization required, ensuring a curated experience that often includes theme-based celebrations and exclusive adventures.
Nota Bene Global
Nota Bene Global champions “quiet luxury” through exceptional travel experiences curated by its founders Anthony and Elaine Lassman. With a select membership base, they focus on firsthand reviewed itineraries that cater specifically to affluent travelers seeking unique experiences, such as private jets to Antarctica or bespoke yachting adventures. Their attention to detail ensures that every experience is memorable and personalized, all while maintaining a premium service level.