who we are
As a boutique firm, we can mobilize quickly for you, customize, and keep your costs down. We bring good vibes every step of the way.
Who We Are
At Equality Institute, we specialize in helping client-facing professionals—sales, service, and account teams—navigate differences with confidence. We transform awkward interactions into authentic connections, fostering trust and driving business success.
As a certified woman- and LGBTQ+-owned business, we bring a unique perspective to this work. Our approach is grounded in humanity, curiosity, clarity, and joy, so every engagement builds trust, sparks insight, and leaves people energized.
Some of Our Clients
Our origin story
One of Bernadette’s first clients
Bernadette Smith built her career helping people navigate differences, and it all started with a little love.
In the early 2000s, she launched the first LGBTQ+ wedding planning businesses in the country, guiding same-sex couples through a very traditional industry. She helped clients feel seen and respected in spaces that weren’t always built for them.
But then the questions from her peers started rolling in…
“How do I say the right thing?”
“What if I offend someone and don’t mean to?”
“Is it OK if I mess up?”
They weren’t bigots. They were just nervous. And that nervousness was costing them trust, connection, and business.
Bernadette saw the same pattern pop up in sales teams, client meetings, and corporate partnerships. So she pivoted. She founded Equality Institute to help organizations build confidence across difference, especially in client-facing roles where relationships drive results.
Today, her team delivers keynotes, workshops, and eLearning that help professionals skip the cringe and build real trust without shame, jargon, or walking on eggshells.
Because when your people show up with confidence and authenticity, your clients stay for the long haul.