Ryan Celeste: A Door of Opportunity

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Program Reporter

FREMONT — Ryan Celeste began his professional life as a cable installer, but when the economic decline of the early 2000s left him unemployed, he found success in an unexpected place. “After the dot-com bubble burst, I was looking for a job and basically fell into the garage door business,” he recounts. “I started out by working for a local company, and then I got my license and started my own business.”

Today, as owner of Doors on Demand, Ryan says he derives satisfaction from bailing customers out of tough situations. “No one likes having their car stuck in the garage due to a broken door, so people are usually really happy to see me when I arrive. Along with the simple gratification of helping people, that’s something I really enjoy about my job.”

When he’s not working, Ryan enjoys spending time with his three daughters, Cynthia, Brooklyn and Catalina. “I like taking my girls to the beach, the snow and various national parks. We have a cabin in Arnold, so we also enjoy going up there and going boating and hiking.”

In regard to his career, Ryan says a crucial aspect of running a successful business is being straightforward with customers. “Honesty is the main thing. You have to be honest and fix what needs to be fixed…and that’s it!”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What’s your favorite sports team?
A: The San Francisco 49ers.

Q: What’s your favorite style of music?
A: I listen to a lot of different styles, but my favorite is probably reggae.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Stay inside and watch TV.

Q: What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
A: My daughters.

Q: Pancakes or waffles?
A: Waffles.