Today we’re excited to be connecting with Dean Sauer again. We’re excited to feature one of their products in our gift guide – learn more below and we encourage you to use your gift budget to support small businesses & creatives whenever possible.

Dean, we loved learning your story, but I think our audience is going to appreciate learning about the product side of your story as well. So, maybe you can help bring everyone up to speed?
The PyroDino kits from PyroFarms are an engaging and interactive way to experience the captivating phenomenon of bioluminescence. Each kit contains live bioluminescent dinoflagellates—tiny marine plankton that emit a soft, glowing light when gently agitated. The kits include all necessary components, such as the PyroDinos, nutrient solution for care, and a container like the Bioluminescent Bio-Orb, designed to showcase the mesmerizing glow in a compact, easy-to-use format.

The inspiration for the PyroDino kits came from a desire to bring the wonder of natural bioluminescence into people’s homes, making it accessible to science enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone curious about the mysteries of the ocean. Many people may only encounter bioluminescence in rare natural phenomena, such as glowing waves or firefly displays. PyroFarms saw an opportunity to fill this gap by creating a product that not only entertains but also educates and fosters a deeper appreciation for marine ecosystems.

The PyroDino kits are unique because they seamlessly blend cutting-edge science with artistic beauty. These kits stand out for their sustainability, as the dinoflagellates are cultivated in a controlled environment to ensure their health and minimize environmental impact. Designed for all experience levels, they require minimal maintenance, making them accessible and easy to use. The interactive experience of watching the PyroDinos glow is magical and calming, captivating people of all ages and making the kits especially popular among families, educators, and those seeking unique decor or conversation pieces. Their versatility allows them to be used in classrooms, as gifts, or even in art installations, appealing to a wide range of audiences.

The PyroDino kits are perfect for educators and students as an engaging tool for teaching about marine ecosystems, bioluminescence, and sustainability; nature enthusiasts who cherish the wonder of the natural world; creative thinkers like artists and designers inspired by natural light phenomena; and mindfulness seekers looking for a calming and meditative experience.

Do you remember the moment you realized the world needed this product?
Years ago, I was on a sailboat off the coast of Panama in the Pacific, sailing at night with the wind in. Suddenly, I heard the unmistakable sound of a dolphin’s blowhole. When I looked overboard, I was mesmerized by what I saw—dolphins swimming alongside the boat, creating glowing tubes of light in the water under a magnificent night sky. It was pure magic, a rare and awe-inspiring moment that revealed a hidden phenomenon in nature. At that moment, I realized how few people ever get to witness such an extraordinary display of bioluminescence.

That experience planted the seed for creating something that could bring this magic into more people’s lives. I wanted to make this wonder accessible, safe, and sustainable so others could connect with the beauty and mystery of the natural world. Over time, I’ve learned that this product does more than just fill a gap in the marketplace—it sparks curiosity, inspires mindfulness, and fosters a deeper appreciation for the environment. It bridges science and art in a way that captivates people of all ages, reminding us of the incredible interconnectedness of life on Earth.

Have you tried any fun, non-traditional marketing ideas? If so, we’d love to hear the story and details.
One fun and non-traditional marketing idea we’ve embraced is the PyroFarms Night Tour. These events invite people to experience the magic of bioluminescence firsthand, offering a unique, immersive glimpse into the science and wonder behind our products. During the tours, guests visit our facility in the evening, where they can see our bioluminescent dinoflagellates glow in response to movement, creating a truly mesmerizing display.

The idea was born out of our belief that nothing compares to witnessing bioluminescence in person—it’s not just a product feature; it’s an unforgettable experience. The Night Tours have become a powerful way to connect with our community, generate word-of-mouth buzz, and create lifelong fans of our products. Guests often share their experiences on social media, spreading awareness in an organic and heartfelt way. These tours blur the line between education, entertainment, and marketing, showcasing the magic of bioluminescence while strengthening our brand’s connection to nature, innovation, and wonder.

What’s next on the product or brand roadmap?
PyroFarms’ new product line focuses on natural skincare, harnessing the benefits of seawater and microalgae to create innovative, sustainable solutions. This line leverages the nourishing and restorative properties of these natural ingredients, offering a range of products designed to enhance skin health while remaining eco-friendly. By integrating the same microalgae expertise that powers our bioluminescent products, PyroFarms is expanding into the wellness market with a unique approach that combines science and sustainability. This new line is perfect for individuals seeking skincare that aligns with their values of environmental consciousness and natural beauty.

Image Credits
all images property of PyroFarms