šŸ’”ISSUE #036

Your Weekly Warm Up - Brought to you by The Main Line Guide

šŸ‘‹ Good Morning, Lower Merion!

Happy Tuesday! Hope those brackets are doing ok! If not, opening day is only 2 days away! āš¾ If youā€™re not sure what to do between now and the round of 16, we have a few options for you below. If youā€™re looking to venture outside of Lower Merion or would like to see even more options, head on over to The Main Line Guide, where Main Line gems are showcased daily.

We hope you find this issue helpful!

The Lower Merion Spotlight Crew

Sponsored by:

Whether itā€™s an outdoor excursion, a mini adventure with the family, or some nighttime entertainment youā€™re looking for, The Main Line Guide has you covered. Explore local events and see what the Lower Merion area has to offer.

šŸ’”SPOTLIGHT EVENTšŸ’”

šŸ“øKellyā€™s Taproom FB page

Kellyā€™s Taproom presents a special live performance by local talent Matt McGraw! Head on over on Tuesday, March 25th at 10pm for an unforgettable night of music. Visit kellystaproom.com for details!

šŸ’”MORE EVENTSšŸ’”

DATE NIGHT:

Brainiacs, unite at The Grog in Bryn Mawr for Wednesday night Quizzo! Test your trivia chops, sip on drinks, and soak in the lively pub vibe. Donā€™t miss it!

Located at 863 W. Lancaster Ave, Bryn Mawr, PA

NIGHT LIFE: 

šŸ“ø Ardmore Music Hall website

Catch Melvin Seals & JGB at Ardmore Music Hall in Ardmore, PA, on March 29, 2025! Enjoy a tribute to Jerry Garcia Band with soulful, jam-filled rock and blues vibes.

Located at 23 East Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore, PA

OUTDOORS:

Join the Friends of the Cynwyd Heritage Trail and Seven Stars Mobile Sharpening for a Spring Garden Tool Sharpening Event on March 25 from 10 amā€“2 pm at Barmouth Trailhead, Cynwyd Heritage Trail. $15 per tool, knives welcome. Visit sevenstarsharpening.com for details!

FAMILY FRIENDLY:

PlayIn Time Productions hosts a weekly, interactive musical program at Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden, starting this Friday. Perfect for kids up to age five and their parents or caregivers!

Located at 1829 County Line Road, Villanova, PA

Want to browse more events in Lower Merion and the surrounding area? Are you hosting an event youā€™d like thousands of locals to know about? You can do both by CLICKING HERE to visit The Main Line Guide.

TIRED OF FACEBOOK GROUP GUESSWORK?

Stop scrolling through endless ā€œWhatā€™s the bestā€¦?ā€ threads and dodging Aunt Karenā€™s casserole recipes. The Main Line Guide has your back! Weā€™ve got the real scoop on the Main Line and surrounding areaā€™s best events, activities, and food dealsā€¦no group chat drama required. Get straight to the good stuff and leave the wild goose chase behind.

CLICK HERE to check it out!

Sponsored by:

At some point, itā€™s likely you will be deciding where to grab a bite or a drink. Letā€™s see if we can help. Today weā€™re spotlighting

If you know of a drink, dish, spot, deal, or sweet treat you think everyone should know about, make sure to e-mail us at [email protected].

LOCAL SPOT:

Butter Chicken - šŸ“ø Cool as a Cuc IG

Gem feels like an overused word. But Cool as a Cuc is 100% a gem!

Based in Wynnewood, PA, Cool as a Cuc serves up weekly rotating soups bursting with peak-season produce. Packed with vitamins and all-natural ingredientsā€”no preservativesā€”these healthy, addictive bowls elevate weeknight dinners or on-the-go lunches. Owner Kimā€™s Barcelona-inspired passion shines in every delicious, soul-nourishing spoonful.

Check out the ordering process on their website HERE.

AJ Bakery is hosting a bake sale at The Greeks Next Door in Narberth on Friday from 5-8 PM. Indulge in treats like this delicious looking cookie cake. CLICK HERE to check out the full menu on their Facebook page, as well as all of their upcoming events.

Located at 237 Haverford Ave, Narberth, PA

CLICK HERE to explore The Main Line Guide for more delicious restaurants and food specials in the area! Discover new flavors and hidden gems that will satisfy your cravings. Happy eating!

TIRED OF FACEBOOK GROUP GUESSWORK?

Stop scrolling through endless ā€œWhatā€™s the bestā€¦?ā€ threads and dodging Aunt Karenā€™s casserole recipes. The Main Line Guide has your back! Weā€™ve got the real scoop on the Main Line and surrounding areaā€™s best events, activities, and food dealsā€¦no group chat drama required. Get straight to the good stuff and leave the wild goose chase behind.

CLICK HERE to check it out!

Sponsored by:

Our Lifestyle section spotlights the diverse and exciting activities available in Lower Merion! Here, readers will discover a variety of local lifestyle vibes designed to inspire mini-adventures and enrich daily life. Enjoy exploring all that this vibrant community has to offer!

Natureā€™s Haven: Riverbends Serene Trails

šŸ“ø Riverbend Website

Riverbend Environmental Education Center in Gladwyne offers a nature escape on its 30-acre preserve, perfect for a serene getaway. Wander trails through woodlands, spotting wildlife or enjoying a quiet picnic. Open daily from dawn to dusk, this free retreat invites you to explore natural habitats, from meadows to streams, fostering a deep connection with the outdoors. Itā€™s an ideal spot to unwind or reflect. Enjoy birdwatching? Make sure to bring your binoculars!

Located at 1950 Spring Mill Road, Gladwyne, PA

Want more inspiration? CLICK HERE to search The Main Line Guide for the lifestyle vibes that fit you. Hosting activities or running a venue that does? Get your info in there and let locals find you! Visit The Main Line Guide today!

LOOKING FOR A BIGGER ADVENTURE?

šŸ›³ļøSet Sail on the Brilliant Lady's MerMaiden Voyage!šŸ›³ļø

Be part of history on this inaugural sailing from NYC to Bermuda, where city skyline meets island paradise! Departing from vibrant New York City, enjoy a blissful sea day before spending two unforgettable days in Bermudaā€”exploring stunning coastlines, pink-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

Trip Highlights:

  • Kick off your adventure in the heart of NYC šŸŒ†

  • Two days to soak up Bermudaā€™s beauty and nightlife ā›±ļø

  • Dance under the stars at Kingā€™s Wharf āœØ

  • Return to NYC for Broadway, Central Park, and more! šŸŽ­

This is a once-in-a-lifetime sailingā€”donā€™t miss your chance! Click here to learn more and book your spot today!

Sponsored by:

We had the pleasure of connecting with Dr. Karen Conn at Bryn Mawr Orthodontics. After learning more about the practice, we couldnā€™t wait to shine a light on how theyā€™re making a real difference in the Lower Merion community. Her responses revealed a passion for transforming smiles, a mastery of cutting-edge technology, and a personalized approach thatā€™s worth sharing. Hereā€™s the full Q&A from our email exchange, so you can discover what makes Bryn Mawr Orthodontics a standout choice for care right here in your neighborhood.

Dr. Ross Segal & Dr. Karen Conn

Q: Why did you choose Orthodontics as your profession?
My passion for orthodontics began while I was an orthodontic patient, and my pursuit of a career in orthodontics has been driven by my desire to provide patients with that same life-changing moment I had the day my braces were removed.

In a seventh-grade assignment, I was asked, ā€œWhat do you want to be when you grow up?,ā€ and I wrote about becoming an orthodontist. My family and friends often remark that it was unusual (maybe a little strange?) that I developed an interest in orthodontics at such a young age, especially without a dentist in my family. But it means that it is not an overstatement to say that I am truly fulfilling my almost lifelong dream each time I treat a patient at Bryn Mawr Orthodonticsā€¦ I love exceeding a patientā€™s expectations and I am passionate about providing the highest quality of personalized care and infusing each of my doctor-patient relationships with confidence and trust.

Even though I get to see it all the time, there is nothing better than watching that life-changing moment when a teenager or adult gets their braces off and finishes treatment. I get to see the physical and emotional impact that treatment has on patients, bask in their excitement, and it is an exhilarating and gratifying experience every time.

Q: What orthodontic treatments and services do you offer, and can you explain the process of creating a personalized treatment plan for a new patient?
At Bryn Mawr Orthodontics, we specialize in Invisalign and braces for kids, teens, and adults. A personalized treatment plan starts with a complimentary consultation. It's a chance for me or Dr. Segal to understand what a patient is hoping to achieve with their orthodontic care. We want to hear about their concerns and goals, and of course, answer any questions they might have. During this initial meeting, we'll do a careful examination of their teeth and facial structure and thoroughly review records. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan including a digital mockup to give a patient an idea of what the final result might look like. At Bryn Mawr Orthodontics, we take a comprehensive view, considering the whole facial structure, not just the teeth. We believe this helps us achieve a more balanced and natural outcome. We also use advanced technology to achieve precise tooth movements, which can enhance results and shorten treatment time. Most importantly, we strive to be transparent and honest throughout the process. We only recommend treatment when we genuinely believe it's necessary. Building trust with our patients is really important to us.

Q: How do traditional braces compare to clear aligners in terms of effectiveness, comfort, and treatment duration?
Both traditional braces and clear aligners are effective solutions for a range of orthodontic needs, from minor adjustments to complex corrections. Traditional braces utilize brackets and wires, while clear aligners employ custom, removable trays. Clear aligners generally offer greater comfort by eliminating the possible irritation associated with brackets and wires. However, their success relies heavily on patients consistently wearing them. Treatment duration for both methods is influenced by case complexity. To help patients make informed decisions, our team thoroughly discusses the pros and cons of each option during a consultation, ensuring a patient selects the best treatment approach for their individual needs.

Q: What role does modern technology, such as digital scanning or 3D imaging, play in your practice?
I love incorporating technology, but not just to make the office look cool (even though it does). Weā€™ve incorporated the most innovative technology to help us achieve the highest quality results in the shortest amount of time. Bryn Mawr Orthodontics was designed to be a tech-forward, state-of-the-art practice - Iā€™m confident you would not find more-advanced orthodontic technology anywhere in the area. We use 3D Cone Beam Computed Technology (CBCT) to more accurately evaluate details that can be missed by traditional 2D x-rays. We use digital scanners to take quick, comfortable scans of teeth - we can show a patient the final position of their teeth before they begin treatment. Weā€™ve invested in a 3D printer to print models quickly and accurately right in our office to improve the patient experience.

Although I have surrounded myself with the latest technology, I still like to think of myself as an ā€œold schoolā€ doctor, providing personalized, hands-on attention to every patient who comes in for treatment and hand-placing each bracket.

Q: How do you ensure a comfortable, supportive experience for patients of all ages throughout their treatment?
Our office cultivates a comfortable and supportive environment for patients of all ages through a combination of thoughtful amenities and personalized care. The practice has an open, bright, and clean environment, fostering a sense of calm and well-being from the moment patients arrive. To cater to diverse needs, the office includes a playful area with a basketball hoop and Nintendo for younger patients, while also providing private treatment rooms for adults and those who prefer a more secluded setting due to anxiety or sensory sensitivities. We selected modern and comfortable furnishings to help ensure adults feel equally at ease, reflecting a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. This balanced approach acknowledges the unique requirements of each age group, creating a space where everyone feels respected and valued. Furthermore, our practice prioritizes patient education, providing clear information and open communication to ensure patients understand each step of their orthodontic journey, empowering them to actively participate in their care.

Q: What are the typical timelines for various orthodontic treatments, and what factors can influence these durations?
We tailor treatment timelines to each patient's unique needs, with most cases ranging from 12 to 18 months. Several factors influence these durations, including the complexity of the orthodontic issues, individual biological responses, and the specific treatment method selected. To potentially accelerate progress, we offer advanced technologies like OrthoPulse, a light-based therapy device designed to stimulate tooth movement. During your initial consultation, we'll provide a treatment estimate, giving you a clear understanding of your expected timeline.

Q: How do you support patients with post-treatment care and retention to maintain their results long-term?
At Bryn Mawr Orthodontics, the commitment to patient care extends far beyond the active treatment phase. We recognize that orthodontic treatment is an ongoing process and the retention phase is crucial for stabilizing newly aligned teeth. This phase primarily involves the use of custom-made retainers, with various options available to suit individual needs, including clear aligner-type retainers, Hawley retainers, and fixed retainers. We provide patients with instructions on how long and when to wear their retainers, along with thorough guidance on proper care. Regular follow-up appointments allow us to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments, ensuring optimal results.

Q: What financing options, payment plans, or insurance partnerships do you offer to make treatment more accessible?
At Bryn Mawr Orthodontics, we strive to make orthodontic treatment accessible to all patients by offering a range of financial solutions. For those seeking flexible arrangements, we provide in-house financing and convenient payment plans. These plans typically involve an initial deposit, followed by manageable, interest-free monthly installments spread throughout the treatment duration. Recognizing the importance of insurance coverage, our office works with most PPO insurance plans and assists patients in maximizing their orthodontic benefits. We also accept payments from Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA), which further expands the payment options available to patients. By offering these varied financing and insurance options, we aim to ensure that financial considerations do not hinder patients from achieving their desired smiles.

Q: What credentials and experience does your team bring to provide expert orthodontic care?
Dr. Segal and I are both Board-Certified Orthodontists. That means we've gone through additional training and testing to meet certain standards in our field. It's something we both felt was important. We've been fortunate to receive recognition over the years, like being listed as "Top Dentists" in Philadelphia Magazine and Main Line Today, and "Top Orthodontists" in Suburban Family. We're also among the top 1% of Invisalign providers, which reflects our experience with clear aligner treatment. And, of course, we were really humbled to be voted "Best Orthodontist" in the Philadelphia Inquirer's Philly Favorites contest, and to receive the Main Line Parent LOVE Award. These distinctions mean a lot to us. But honestly, it's not the awards that drive us. What really matters to Dr. Segal and me is providing personalized, hands-on care to each patient. We really try our best to listen and understand what each person needs, and hope to exceed their expectations. That's what we find most rewarding.

Q: Can you share a patient testimonial that highlights the impact of your work at Bryn Mawr Orthodontics?
Cassidy Taylor: Before meeting Dr. Conn and Dr. Segal, I had a terrible outdated bridge on my front teeth, a very gummy smile, and an open bite. I was uncomfortable, not very confident with my smile, and I knew that I was getting married soon. So I decided it was time to make a change and I am so happy that I wound up in their care. Dr. Segal and Dr. Conn are the reason that I am so confident in my smile today. I had a complex case and they had so much patience and compassion for me during the entire process. They made me feel valued not only as a patient, but as a member of the team in my treatment plan, and I am just forever grateful to them for the time and effort they have put into giving me this beautiful, confident smile that I was able to wear on my wedding day. Thank you guys for everything! You are truly the best!

We're very grateful for the testimonials our patients and referring dentists have shared on our website. It's humbling to hear that people are happy with the care they've received. We're particularly honored when dentists in the community choose us for their own orthodontic needs or for their families. While we appreciate the recognition, we really just try to provide the best possible care for everyone who walks through our door.

Ready for a confident smile? Bryn Mawr Orthodontics offers free consultations for our readers! Discover personalized care from Dr. Conn and Dr. Segal. Book yours today at brynmawrorthodontics.com or call their office (484-383-0055). Transform your smile with a team trusted by the community. Your perfect smile awaits!

MainLineJobs.com: Your Local Career Connection

Looking for work? MainlineJobs.com connects you with top local jobs in the Main Line and surrounding areas! Why choose us? Enjoy shorter commutes, deeper community ties, and opportunities tailored to your area.

Employers, post listings easily to attract invested talent fast. Less noise than national boards means better retention and quicker, more relevant matches. Whether youā€™re seeking an entry-level gig or an executive role, weā€™ve got you covered. Visit MainlineJobs.com today and take the next step in your career. Or, find the perfect hire for your team. Your future job or star employee is just a click away! Why wait?

Market Inventory Comparison šŸ“Š

Brought to you by our sponsor, Carolyn Kaufmann, Realtor with Keller Williams Main Line

ā€‹As of February 2025, the Lower Merion Township real estate market has experienced notable changes compared to the same period in 2024.ā€‹ Rocket - Help Everyone Home

Home Prices:

  • Median Listing Price: In February 2025, the median listing home price was $975,000, reflecting a 12.1% increase from February 2024. ā€‹Realtor

  • Median Sold Price: The median sold price rose to $804,666, an 11% year-over-year increase. ā€‹Rocket - Help Everyone Home

Market Dynamics:

  • Seller's Market: Lower Merion Township continues to be a seller's market, indicating that demand exceeds supply, leading to higher prices and faster sales. ā€‹Rocket - Help Everyone Home+1Zillow+1

  • Average Days on Market: Homes spent an average of 48 days on the market in February 2025, up from 35 days in February 2024, marking a 34.8% increase. ā€‹Rocket - Help Everyone Home

Housing Supply:

  • Active Listings: There were 146 homes for sale in February 2025, an 18.7% increase compared to January 2025. ā€‹Rocket - Help Everyone Home

  • Homes Sold: The number of homes sold remained steady at 30 in February 2025, unchanged from the previous month. ā€‹Rocket - Help Everyone Home

ARE YOU:

  • šŸ¤” Curious about real-time market activity in your neighborhood?

  • šŸ’° Looking to find out your homeā€™s value in minutes?

  • šŸ“‹ Interested in viewing all active and coming soon listings?

  • šŸ  Looking to help someone buy or sell a home in Lower Merion?

SPONSORED BY: Carolyn Kaufmann, Realtor

If you answered yes to any of the above, CLICK HERE to connect with Carolyn, your trusted local expert for all things Real Estate in Lower Merion!

Keller Williams Main Line

Weekly Weather Forecast For Lower Merion Township

  • Tuesday: ā›… Partly Cloudy | High: 58Ā°F | Low: 39Ā°F

  • Wednesday: šŸŒ§ļø Light Rain | High: 49Ā°F | Low: 32Ā°F

  • Thursday: šŸŒ¤ļø Mostly Sunny | High: 52Ā°F | Low: 38Ā°F

  • Friday: ā˜ļø Mostly Cloudy | High: 59Ā°F | Low: 42Ā°F

  • Saturday: ā›… Partly Cloudy | High: 62Ā°F | Low: 47Ā°F

  • Sunday: ā˜ļø Cloudy | High: 63Ā°F | Low: 50Ā°F

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