If you’re interested in a brand that promotes individuality and traveling in comfort, Wander Babe might be the next thing for you. The travel apparel brand offers accessories, hoodies, and sweat sets, and it’s the brainchild of Penn Stater Sydney DeMedio.

DeMedio is a sophomore in Smeal College of Business, considering a major in either marketing or sales, and a minor in entrepreneurship. She is currently involved in the Nittany Entrepreneurship Society, which inspired her to start her own business, Wander Babe.

After hearing of young entrepreneurs in the Nittany Entrepreneurship Society speak on behalf of their own companies, DeMedio developed her own business plan and pursued her dream of starting her own company. She came up with the name “Wander Babe” because it incorporates empowerment, playfulness, and travel.

“I wanted it to be playful but strong. Wander obviously reflects travel and exploration, and then babe adds empowerment and indicates you’re wearing a stylish piece,” DeMedio said.

The brand’s slogan, “Wander Far, Wander Always,” encourages people to be themselves as they travel, whether it’s internationally or just to class.

Wander Babe is a brand for everyone. Some of their pieces are minimalistic, while others are abstract, catering to individuals who want to express their personality through clothing and have an adventurous side.

DeMedio acknowledges that, as a young student and business owner, she faces challenges with time management. She feels her most significant milestone has been seeing her brand come to life and receiving customer feedback and purchases.

Since starting her brand, DeMedio is grateful for the company’s growth on social media and the broad audience it’s attracted.

“It’s grown from ages 16 to honestly, my grandma wears Wander Babe, so anyone can wear it,” said DeMedio.

In the future, she hopes to host pop-up shops in major cities and airports around the world. As for right now, she teased an upcoming drop and potential collaboration with an unnamed Penn State TikToker.

Her advice for Penn State students wanting to start their own companies is to take initiative. Start now and learn along the way.

“It’s been surreal for me and taught me that if it’s small, just go for it because you never know what it can turn into someday,” DeMedio said.

For more information or to shop Wander Babe, you can visit them on Instagram @shopwanderbabe.