1 of 2
CARRIE LAIDLER/SWAK PHOTOGRAPHY
2 of 2
CARRIE LAIDLER/SWAK PHOTOGRAPHY
Sweet summertime — there’s nothing quite like it.
As the temperatures continue to rise, escape Nashville’s hot and humid nights by getting out on the water. Set sail on Percy Priest Lake with Sail & Co. and take in Music City’s spectacular sunsets from their renovated, coastal-inspired vessel. A unique date night or family fun experience, Sail & Co. is the perfect way to relax and unwind on a Tennessee, summer night.
On Deck: Husband-and-wife duo Jon and Carrie Laidler are at the helm of Sail & Co. Both originally from the Florida Panhandle, the couple met in high school. Just over seven years ago, after visiting Nashville and falling in love with the area and the people, Carrie left Panama City behind and moved to Music City for a change of scenery. Once the two began dating, Carrie convinced Jon to make the move to Tennessee and the couple has been docked here ever since.
Come Sail Away With Me: While Carrie is a photographer and snaps the perfect photos of couples, families, and friends on the sunset sails, Jon is the licensed captain who navigates each charter. Though he has sailed in the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, Maine, and other long-distance sailing ventures, Jon is no stranger to weather conditions on open water, so sailing on Percy Priest Lake is a breeze.
Happiness Comes in Waves: Being able to combine both of their passions into a job they get to do together is a dream come true for the couple. And for Carrie and Jon, getting as many Nashvillians as possible to fall in love with sailing is just the cherry on top. Everyone from adults to kids can try their hand at sailing alongside Jon, or just kick back, relax, and soak in the sights and sounds of Percy Priest Lake. “Offering such a unique backdrop for photos or date nights is something we really wanted to bring to Nashville,” says Carrie.
Oh Buoy: Every good sailor knows that picking out a boat’s name needs to be just right. Little Bird, coined after the Laidler’s baby girl arriving in October, can hold up to six passengers, plus Carrie and Jon. The vessel is quaint, charming, and aesthetically appealing for photos. And like the exterior of the boat, the interior is just as inviting. Through a renovation and plenty of hidden expenses, the Laidlers gutted the inside of Little Bird by reupholstering the cushions, painting, and installing decorative countertops and backsplashes. After the sun dips down, cozy lighting adds to the ambiance.
Sail-ebrate: Sail & Co. offers two sunset sail packages. Guests who are looking for a relaxing ride, whether it be a date night, family experience, or engagement photo shoot can choose from the two-hour sunset sail ($400) or the two-hour sunset sail with a photographer included ($600.) With the latter option, Carrie’s photography business, Swak Photography, provides guests with roughly 150 edited images delivered after the sail. Those looking to bring their own photographer can do so, too. A beautiful boat on the lake provides a stunning backdrop for newly engaged couples, birthday celebrations, and more.
Fish n’ Ships: Guests can bring their favorite food and beverages aboard the boat. Carrie recommends packing charcuterie-style snacks since it is the easiest to eat while on the moving vessel, but a birthday or other celebratory event calls for something special, so cake and other fun desserts are highly encouraged. Alcohol is also permitted on board, though red wine is a no-go since spills are bound to happen on a sailboat.
Sailing Specifics: Sail & Co. takes sunset-goers out from mid-March to mid- November. And while a summer escape might be on your mind, don’t dismiss an autumn ride. The colors of the leaves in the fall offer just as beautiful of a view from the middle of the lake.