Special thanks to Mad About Mahjong Photography by Jeremy Hernandez
If you haven’t already heard, there’s a new obsession sweeping north and central Louisiana—and it’s not Pickleball or Pilates. It’s Mahjong—and yes, we are officially mad about it.
Since May 2024, three fabulous local women—Katherine Webb, Molly McInnis, and Lauren Pettiette—have introduced over 600 people to the American version of this iconic tile game. That’s right, 150+ classes and counting. Turns out, Mahjong isn’t just a scene from Crazy Rich Asians—it’s fast, strategic, a little addictive, and a whole lot of fun.
It All Started with a Card and a Coincidence
Katherine picked up the game from family in Dallas back in 2019. She had the tiles, the card…but no crew to play with. Fast forward a few years, when her sister-in-law Molly finds a class in Shreveport. They sign up—and just happen to land at the same table as Lauren. It was a modern day meet-cute.
The three instantly clicked, bonded over bams and dragons, and kept playing every chance they got. They realized—wait, almost no one around here knows how to play! And just like that, Mad About Mahjong was born. (Cue the shuffle.)
It’s Not Just a Movie Moment
We’ve all seen that ultra-glam scene from Crazy Rich Asians. While American Mahjong uses the same style of tiles, it plays by its own set of rules. The National Mah Jongg League (Yes, that’s a thing, and yes, the spellings vary) sets the standard with an official card released every year. It has letters, numbers, and enough combos to make your head spin.
But don’t stress—MAM breaks it all down in their Mahjong 101 class, teaching you how to read the card, understand the tiles, and actually win a hand without losing your head. From there, you can level up with Mahjong 102 or dive into Tile Tactics for next-level strategy. There are also themed events (Mahjong + Margaritas? Yes please!) and weekly leagues to keep the party going.
A Game That Looks as Good as it Feels
Mahjong is as much a style choice as it is a game. The tiles? Gorgeous. The setups? Pinterest-worthy. Think: Southern-chic sets with sweet tea motifs, holiday-themed collections, even designs that match your mood. People collect sets like handbags—and honestly, we support that.
You can snag a basic set for around $20, or go all out with a designer set from Tiffany or Louis Vuitton (no judgment). Add a cute mat, a cheeky accessory (“Life’s short. Use Jokers”), maybe a champagne flute for that “Bird Bam” toast, and you’re ready to rack and roll.
MAM teaches with sets from stylish brands like Oh My Mahjong and My Fair Mahjong—and they even have a discount code (318MAHJ) to treat yourself.
Where Community Meets Competition
This isn’t just about learning a game—it’s about connecting. Mad About Mahjong classes have popped up everywhere: East Ridge, Pierremont Oaks, Biscotti’s, Glow Alchemy Kitchen—you name it. Whether you’re in Shreveport, Texarkana, Ruston or Natchitoches, these ladies are spreading Mahjong magic one tile at a time.
And we love that it’s a thing—a weekly ritual, a girls’ night alternative, a reason to get gussied up and gather your girlfriends.
Who’s at the Table? Everyone.
Though the majority of players are women (sorry, fellas—you’re missing out!), MAM has taught students from age 8 to 80. Couples’ classes are a hit, but more often, it’s groups of girlfriends, sisters, moms, and daughters bonding over jokers and dragon tiles.
“Some of our favorite friendships started at the Mahjong table,” Katherine says. “It’s honestly the best part.”
The Wellness Bonus
And hey—it’s not just fun. It’s good for your brain. Mahjong improves memory, logic, and focus, and it’s even been linked to better cognitive health in older adults. Even more than that? It brings people together.
Each new year brings a new NMJL card—and with it, new challenges and fresh hands to master. Just when you think you’ve got it figured out…boom, the game changes. It keeps you sharp and coming back for more. As Julia Roberts once said, “It’s like life—we try to make order out of chaos.”
Want to Join the Madness?
Follow Mad About Mahjong on Instagram and Facebook: @MadAboutMahjong, Mad About Mahjong or visit madaboutmahjongsbc.com for a full schedule of classes and events.
Whether you’re brand new or looking to sharpen your strategy, they’ve got a seat for you.
