In a world of rising global wealth, the 0.001 percent are increasingly moving toward a lifestyle where nothing is off-limits. Gone are the days when they relied on valets as attentive as PG Wodehouse’s Jeeves or hotel concierges bedecked with the Les Clefs d’Or golden crossed keys. Today, a thriving industry caters to these worldly individuals, enabling them to indulge their every desire, no matter where they find themselves.
The surge in demand for luxury concierge services correlates directly with increasingly demanding lifestyles; as the adage goes, money is time, and special bookings often require both. “Post-Covid, every restaurant is booked, every hotel is booked, prices have risen, and people are just dying for service more and more,” remarks Jaclyn Sienna India, 43, of Sienna Charles. “It’s about being paid attention to, being listened to, and having your needs met.”
Headquartered in New York, Sienna Charles operates as a membership-based service for individuals boasting a net worth of $100 million or more, validated by comprehensive background checks. The firm’s team of 16 works closely with a select group of 100 families, ensuring a personalized experience. Much like exclusive clubs, potential clients often gain access to Sienna Charles through referrals from existing members. “There are close to 30,000 people worth a hundred million or more,” India explains. “So that’s a lot of people vying for the same events, the same restaurants, the same designers.”
The ideal client for Sienna Charles usually possesses a type-A personality, accustomed to delegating tasks both professionally and personally. They appreciate a bit of creative freedom and welcome an element of surprise in their tailored itineraries. To finalize their service, clients pay an upfront annual membership fee: $75,000 for travel-only services and $150,000 for comprehensive lifestyle services.
Since its founding in 2007, Sienna Charles has closed off iconic destinations like the Taj Mahal, the Louvre, and Machu Picchu for private access. However, clients are increasingly seeking emotional connection through their experiences. Securing a reservation at a posh restaurant in New York is just part of the service; the team can also arrange trips to the French winery that produced the evening’s celebrated wine. In the case of art galleries in London, Sienna Charles facilitates not just visits but the development of ongoing relationships where clients might purchase pieces for their own collections. “We find that people travel to pursue passions. That’s the No. 1 reason they’re leaving their house,” India asserts.
Sienna Charles has organized some astonishing experiences for clients, like a private breakfast prepared by a Michelin-starred chef on top of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, or a candlelit dinner for a family of eight after hours at the Palace of Versailles. “People are looking for something deeper,” India remarks. “They’re making sure that they have the best access.”
India’s journey into the luxury arena began while attending art school in Philadelphia, when she worked part-time at the five-star restaurant Le Bec-Fin. Her fascination with the affluent patrons sparked a desire to explore the nuances of wealth and exclusivity, prompting her to transition from a conventional travel agency to establishing Sienna Charles.
Clients often have a calendar filled with high-profile events—Europe in the summer, the Hamptons for the fall, special Christmas locales, ski trips, and spring breaks. India dedicates herself to ensuring that each experience is worth her clients’ time, continually scouting for new, trending attractions.
“The calendar is anchored in those events and the destinations that are really hot,” she notes, emphasizing places like St. Tropez and St. Barts. “They want to be at parties. They want to enjoy an active social life. We’re there to enhance the lifestyle part of our service and ensure we’re meeting all those needs.”
One of the most common requests involves last-minute tickets to cultural and sporting events. However, it’s not solely about accessing prime seats; clients expect a full experience, including hair styling appointments and table reservations at top restaurants afterward. “It’s about providing access—ensuring you look and feel your best before and after,” India explains.
In this world where money is no object, experience holds utmost significance. Sienna Charles tailors its services on a “minute by minute” basis for clients, most of whom are entrepreneurs, CEOs, and celebrities from the U.S. Their plans remain fluid, often shifting rapidly based on emerging opportunities. “The reason that it’s a benefit to be wealthy,” India concludes, “is freedom.”
Six Top Concierge Services
Innerplace
Launched in 2002 by Tim Badham, who has a background in wealth management, Innerplace has become a cornerstone in the luxury concierge sector. The service allows clients access to the most exclusive restaurants, film premieres, and award shows. Operating on a tiered membership model, clients at the Red tier (parameter-based entry) can request anything from VIP tickets to Glastonbury to meet-and-greets with leading artists. With a limit of around 50 members, Innerplace provides a highly personalized touch, charging up to £12,000 per year plus VAT for individuals and up to £25,000 for families.
Knightsbridge Circle
Founded in 2012 by Stuart McNeill, Knightsbridge Circle pairs members with personal managers, maintaining a limit of just 70 clients for an ultra-personalized service. McNeill’s experience with American Express Centurion informed his vision, resulting in a fully bespoke approach for each client. Recent accomplishments include rare jewelry acquisitions and bespoke travel itineraries featuring high-profile personal appearances and exclusive events.
Quintessentially
As it approaches its 25th anniversary, Quintessentially continues to evolve. With 450 staff across 35 international offices, including major capitals around the world, it provides dedicated lifestyle and travel management services. Membership has skyrocketed by 40% since April 2021, driving the company to develop an app for smooth member access. Rates start from £7,000 plus VAT for basic services and can reach £27,500 for the Quintessence level encompassing all-inclusive, proactive service.
S2 Lifestyle Management
Founded by Goran Svilar and Ali Samli, S2 Lifestyle Management strives to deliver the “art of service” with a multilingual, multicultural team always on call. The service tailors each membership to clients’ needs, from daily errands to large-scale travels. With annual fees around £60,000 for individuals and up to £150,000 for corporate clients, they excel in high-profile asset management and luxury acquisitions.
Ellidore
Founded in 2014 by Simon Blackford and Tom de Stacpoole, Ellidore has carved a niche in luxury events and travel but has expanded to include personal shopping and styling services. Membership is restricted to ultra-high-net-worth individuals, with experiences ranging from personal sunrises to extravagant group trips. Annual fees commence at £15,000, adjusted for personalization and family members.
Nota Bene Global
Operated by husband-and-wife duo Anthony and Elaine Lassman, Nota Bene Global is the epitome of “quiet luxury” in concierge services. Each experience is meticulously curated, with a focus on travel and exclusive excursions. Annual fees hover around £40,000, granting access to unique experiences like private jets to Antarctica and exceptional culinary engagements.