Whether you’re a casual lake-goer or a hardcore water sports enthusiast, we’ve discovered an exciting new resource that’ll make your next local lake visit more enjoyable.
Slades Wake is the entrepreneurial venture of University of Texas graduate, Courtney Slade. Following graduation, Courtney took a hiatus to travel across the continental United States and abroad. A large part of her adventuring included sports like snow boarding and surfing. But when she returned home to Austin, she realized that there was no comprehensive resource for outdoor enthusiasts who wanted to enjoy lake sports and activities in the Austin area.
Eager to fill the void, Courtney designed her new website to include weather updates, a searchable map, local event information, contests and more. It’s “a comprehensive one-stop-shop to better your lake experience,” says the founder.
Austinot Eric celebrates with Founder Courtney Slade at the Slades Wake Launch Party
What You Get from Slades Wake
SladesWake.com is notable for its user-friendliness. A large amount of information is easily accessible, depending upon your specific needs and location. You can access information by lake (Lake Travis, Lake Austin, Lady Bird Lake) or topic (e.g. boat ramps, equipment and rentals, fuel). Information is displayed on a map, so you can easily discover resources near you.
Slades Wake map with extensive search features
All About Community
“Community is huge for me,” says Courtney. “[The site is] all about bringing people together on the water.” In addition to information you might expect, like weather conditions and maps, Courtney has built bonus features into the site for group gatherings on and around the water. Themed music playlists are available, and users even have the option of submitting their own playlists.
Slades Wake has been in development since June 2012 and went live on January 16, 2013. Though Slades Wake is already mobile friendly, Courtney plans to develop an app soon to make the information even simpler to access on the go.
As Courtney single-handedly grows her new business, she is inspired by the lake lifestyle. “My passion is water. I love it.” She is also passionate about supporting local businesses along the water, adding that her long list of favorites includes Hula Hut, Mozart’s and South Austin Marine.
@QuasiBrit asks:
Will you check out Slades Wake before planning your next lake adventure?
Slider photo courtesy of Board Girl Travels.
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