Purple Heart signifying a prayer for those that are no longer at our table.

Corporate events are usually defined by handshakes, slideshows, and networking. The 2026 PurpleOne Conference was defined by something much more powerful: a community standing together to end domestic violence.

Walking into the Ambassador Center, you could instantly feel the gravity and the hope filling the room. This year's PurpleOne Conference brought together over 300 advocates, survivors, and local change-makers for a single, vital mission: ending domestic violence.

Partnering with Safe Journey and PurpleOne to capture this event was an incredible honor. When I document a conference like this, I don't just point a camera at a podium. I approach it with the same storytelling mindset I use for high-end weddings. The story of an event is found in the quiet details. It is in the table settings, the handwritten notes, the purple hearts left in silent prayer, and the empty seat reserved to honor Gabby Petito. This day was a beautiful, heartbreaking, and ultimately inspiring testament to what happens when a community chooses to rise up together.

Those details are the heartbeat of the mission.

Here are the major highlights from an unforgettable day.

The Power of Community in Motion

The energy kicked off immediately with the RAACA (Riders Advocating Against Child Abuse) "Rise Up" entrance. The roar of the bikes outside matched the determination inside the room.

The Ambassador's Garden Atrium and banquet halls were packed with support. Over 37 local vendors and sponsors set up booths to share resources, showing just how deep the network of advocacy runs in the Erie and Waterford areas. From interactive mapping stations to the symbolic signature wall, every corner of the venue was focused on solidarity.

Holding Space for Gabby’s Legacy

The heart of the conference centered on holding tough, necessary conversations. Hearing the Gabby Petito Foundation speak about the events leading up to Gabby’s fate was a profoundly emotional experience. There wasn't a dry eye in the room, serving as a powerful reminder of why the work of Safe Journey is so critical.

Lori proved once again why she is the perfect person to lead the forefront of PurpleOne and Safe Journey. She orchestrated the massive day beautifully, leading the summit with a blend of fierce dedication and a genuinely big heart.

A Lasting Commitment to Change

The Mission Behind the Lens The work that Safe Journey and PurpleOne do in our community is literally life saving. They provide resources, education, and safe spaces for those impacted by domestic violence. This conference was a vital step in Uniting Voices and Empowering Action.

One of the most impactful moments of the day was watching hundreds of attendees sign the "Communities United Against Domestic Violence" banner. I even stepped out from behind the lens to add my own signature to the wall. It was a tangible reminder that we are all active participants in this fight.

The conference may be over, but the work is just beginning. Let’s make it our collective mission to get the resources of Safe Journey and the PurpleOne training in front of the people who need them most.

Be the voice for those that no longer have theirs.

Support the Mission

Get Trained: Learn more about how your business or organization can take part in the official PurpleOne training.
Connect: Follow Safe Journey and the Gabby Petito Foundation to stay informed and support local victims of domestic abuse.

You are not Alone

If you or someone you know needs help, please call Safe Journey’s Hotline at (814) 438-2675, or contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.

It Takes a Village Eradicating domestic violence is not a one-person job. It requires the financial, emotional, and vocal support of the entire community. As a business owner, I was incredibly proud to see the Erie corporate community step up to fund this vital event.

Please take a moment to recognize and support the local businesses and organizations that made this conference possible. When local businesses unite behind a cause this important, real change happens.

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