Mermaid & Marine
We’re two souls who wandered off the beaten path — one drawn to the sea, the other shaped by the storm — and found beauty, peace, and purpose in the spaces we create.
She’s a mermaid at heart, with saltwater in her veins and an eye for treasures of the past. Her love for layered textures, weathered wood, and ocean hues led to a passion for curating vintage coastal pieces that tell a story — of simpler times, warm breezes, and endless summer afternoons.
He’s a Marine combat veteran, whose journey through PTSD shaped a deep appreciation for calm, quiet, and home. His quiet strength brings grounding and intention to every space she designs — where comfort, healing, and authenticity come first.
Wayward Stays, a place where life slows down, memories are made, and every detail reflects a love for coastal charm and vintage soul.
We offer:
- A peaceful beach vacation home in Chincoteague, VA designed to feel like your favorite getaway — relaxed, timeless, and thoughtfully appointed.
- A curated collection of vintage and coastal home accents at Bunting Market in Owings, MD and on Etsy so you can bring that same warmth and ease into your own space.
Whether you’re staying for a while or styling your home to feel like you’re always on vacation, we invite you to join us in embracing the wayward life — a little wild, a little worn, and always full of heart.
Wayward Stays Team
The Mermaid, Stacy
I believe in the freedom to reinvent your space—and yourself. Many times during my marriage, I dreamed of running away to the beach and becoming a mermaid. As a self-proclaimed Wayward Woman, I moved six times in the first two years after reclaiming my freedom! Through every move, I discovered the magic of wicker and rattan furniture—sturdy enough to last, yet light enough for me to haul up and down the 22 stairs to my apartment. I fell in love with the vintage charm of coastal accents, the thrill of the hunt at yard sales, thrift shops, and auctions, and the peace I found in restoring and reviving each piece. Now, I’m bringing that passion to you through Wayward Stays—a curated collection of new and restored vintage rattan, bamboo, and wicker furniture that’s as full of character and resilience as the people who love it. Whether you’re furnishing a coastal cottage, a cozy apartment, or your dream boho bungalow, you’ll find pieces here that are ready to move with you—and grow with you.
The Marine, Hans
I’m a Marine combat veteran, former police officer, and now a canine handler working with an explosive detection dog. But more than titles or uniforms, I’m someone who’s walked through fire — carrying the weight of trauma, service, and survival.
In the hardest season of my life, I met a self-proclaimed wayward mermaid who saw past the battles I was fighting. She took me to her favorite place in the world — the quiet shores of Chincoteague, Virginia — where something unexpected happened: I felt peace.
For the first time in a long time, I could breathe. The ocean didn’t ask anything of me. The wind didn’t judge. The stillness gave me space to begin healing.
Now, I’m putting down roots here — buying a home in Chincoteague to share that same peace with others. Whether you’re a fellow veteran, first responder, or simply someone who needs a break from the noise of life, this home is for you. A place to exhale. A place to just be.
Because healing doesn’t always happen in hospitals or therapy rooms. Sometimes, it starts with a walk on the beach and a deep breath of salty air.
Favorite TV Show
Both: Clarkson’s Farm
Favorite Drink
Him: Coffee Her: Tea
Favorite Food
Both: Pizza
Favorite Animal
Him: Black Lab Her: Holland Lop Bunny
Favorite Book
Both: Daily Bible by Charles Stanley
Favorite Hobby