Skip to main content

Porch & Parish

Magnolia Mahj Brings the Joy of Mahjong to Zachary

Sep 02, 2025 12:44PM ● By Lauren Pope
Magnolia Mahj [5 Images] Click Any Image To Expand
Zachary has a new way to gather, connect, and have fun, and it comes in the form of a centuries-old tile game with a modern twist. Magnolia Mahj, founded by Liz Ezelle, is introducing American Mahjong to the community with lessons, guided play, and events designed to turn game night into something truly special.

Learning the Game

Whether you’ve never touched a Mahjong tile or you’ve played casually with friends, Magnolia Mahj offers something for everyone.

  • Beginner Lessons (Mahj 101) – For $50 per person, Liz brings the game to you, teaching groups of 4–8 right in the comfort of your home. Perfect for ages 9 to 90, these sessions cover the fundamentals of American Mahjong in a fun, approachable way. Lessons for larger groups are coming soon.

  • Guided Play (Mahj 102) – Also $50 per person, this follow-up session helps players put their new skills into action. Liz guides the table by answering rules questions, offering strategy tips, and helping players feel confident as they learn.

  • Events – Magnolia Mahj partners with local businesses to host larger lessons and open-play events. Imagine sipping, shopping, and shuffling tiles with new friends.

  • Mahjong Set Rentals – For those ready to host their own game nights, Magnolia Mahj offers set rentals complete with everything needed for a night of friendly competition and laughter.

Building Community, One Tile at a Time

Liz, a certified Oh My Mahjong Instructor, started Magnolia Mahj to bring people together. Her mission is simple: to help Zachary residents revamp their game nights, connect with friends and family, and build a community where the sound of shuffling tiles becomes a local tradition.

The Basics of Mahjong

If you’re new to the game, here’s what to know:

  • Mahjong is a strategy game played with 144 tiles, each decorated with Chinese characters, symbols, and numbers.

  • It’s usually played by four people around a square table.

  • The goal is to build matching sets of tiles, similar to gin rummy but with tiles instead of cards.

  • A typical game lasts 1–2 hours—just long enough for an evening of fun.

How to Get Started

No experience is needed to join. To book your first lesson, visit Magnolia Mahj’s Calendly page. New players can also enjoy a 10% discount on Oh My Mahjong products with the code MAGMAHJ10.

For questions, email [email protected] or send a direct message.

Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned Mahjong maven, Magnolia Mahj is ready to help you learn, laugh, and love the game. In Zachary, your seat at the table is waiting.