You can see the excitement on the faces of owners Dirk and Lori Vahle when they discuss California Closets. While giving tours of the showroom, the Vahles can't hide the passion and enthusiasm they show in describing the variety of products the business has to offer. They value their reputation, and both consider repeat business from former customers to be of the highest compliment an owner of a company can receive.

Since starting the business in 1999, the Vahles have prided themselves on providing a quality product, great customer satisfaction, exceptional customer service and all at a reasonable price. It employs 35 full-time employees with the majority working at the manufacturing location in Camarillo. The Vahles add another 100 or so hours a week to keep the business running smoothly. In addition to this location, they also have another showroom in Santa Barbara.

California Closets specializes in providing its customers with organization systems for their closets, garages, home offices, and anything associated with the home that needs to be organized for space with an emphasis on something aesthetically pleasing to the eye. The business is home-based, but they have worked for several retail stores and businesses.

"We manufacture all of the pieces ourselves. It comes to us in -inch sheets," said Vahle about the product. "All the work we do is custom."

This goes along with the philosophy of the company that no two customers are the same, especially when it comes to finding personalized solutions to organization and space challenges.

In the showroom are displays of the various products California Closets has to offer including a custom entertainment center; a custom pantry with a well-thought-out space for a wine rack; a Murphy bed to add space to a small bedroom and any number of possibilities to add space and organization to a home. In addition, the products are available in almost any color a customer might choose.

"Although we do the most volume in white, dark wood is coming back," Vahle said. "The colors of chocolate pear tree and the lighter color candlelight are becoming a popular choice among our clients."

The new product finish Italian melamine, due out sometime early next year, is being shipped directly from Italy.

The process of organizing starts when a client visits the showroom. An appointment is scheduled and a design consultant visits the client's home to offer recommendations designed to embrace the customer's belongings and a way to utilize the best use of their living space.

The designers all have experience in home decorating with an emphasis on space and organization. This initial in-home visit is free of charge.

Once this process is completed, recommendations as to color and decor are suggested. The client is the full partner in the outcome. Feedback to the types of products available are discussed.

California Closets has more than 100 franchises worldwide. Franchises are located in Brazil, Mexico, Australia, and Puerto Rico. In 2004, the Ventura County location won the Franchise of the Year Award. It is given to the franchise that best adheres to corporate values and standards.

The Vahles' interests and backgrounds are diverse. Lori has a background in retail sales for some major corporations and has taught ballet.

Her hobbies include feather jewelry and feather and leather handbags. Dirk has an extensive background in aviation and is a helicopter pilot for the film industry. He's worked in such films as "Pearl Harbor" and "National Treasure."

For more information on California Closets, call the showroom at (800) 427-4744.

It is at 2000 Outlet Center Drive, Suite 170, Oxnard. On the Web visit www.californiaclosets.com.