Meet Dawn
Hi, I’m Dawn, the founder of The Mahjong Mingle and your soon-to-be favorite Mahjong-obsessed friend.
My love for Mahjong began with a simple desire to spend more time with friends. What started as a casual biweekly game quickly grew into a deep appreciation for the strategy, the traditions, the laughter around the table, and, of course, the beautiful tiles and accessories that make the game feel a little magical.
As our biweekly games brought together old and new friends, I felt inspired to expand beyond my own table and grow a wider Mahjong community, one rooted in connection, warmth and shared joy. The Mahjong Mingle was born from that passion.
I’m based in Northville, Michigan. I serve the surrounding area, and yes, I also travel to teach! I can’t wait to introduce you to the world of Mahjong and help you discover a new favorite way to connect with friends and family.
A Little Peek Behind the Tiles
A few fun facts about Dawn
A Place for Everyone at the Table
The Mahjong Mingle is built on approachability, confidence and fun. We teach in a welcoming, confidence-building style that helps brand-new players feel comfortable, while making returning players feel right at home. Every lesson, event and gathering is designed to be stylish, warm and joy-filled. We celebrate connection just as much as the game itself.
Our hope is simple. After a lesson or event, you’ll walk away knowing how to play as well as feeling more connected, more confident and just as smitten with Mahjong as we are.
Our Mission
Before the tiles, before the strategy, before the themes and tablescapes, there is community. Our mission is to create Mahjong experiences where every person feels seen, supported, encouraged and genuinely excited to be at the table. Through thoughtfully designed gatherings and shared play, we use Mahjong as a way to foster connection, joy and belonging.
What is Mahjong?
The tile game of Mahjong has a rich and colorful history that dates back to China in the mid-1800s. Prior to that, a card version of the game had an even longer tradition. Understanding Mahjong’s origins enhances the experience of playing, and we are proud to be part of this enduring legacy.
Mahjong is a game of skill, strategy, calculation, and a bit of luck. It is especially beloved in China, where families often gather around the table for multi-generational play. Over a century ago, the game began to spread beyond China, and today there are at least 40 known variants played around the world. Countries like the U.S., Singapore, and Japan have each put their own spin on the game, adapting and evolving it over time.
Today, the NMJL version is known as the “American Version” or “American Mahjong,” and is widely played across various communities in the United States and abroad.
One of the most remarkable things about Mahjong is its ability to transcend borders and cultures, evolving into countless variations around the globe. Each version brings its own unique characteristics to the game, yet all share the same enduring spirit of skill, strategy, and connection
American Mahjong
American Mahjong is a distinct version of the game, with its own set of rules and a fascinating history shaped by a diverse range of groups, including Chinese Americans, Air Force officers’ wives, and Jewish American suburban mothers. As early as the 19th century, Chinese immigrants were playing Mahjong in the U.S., often tweaking the rules to better suit their families or social circles. Many of these variations have endured, but the most prominent versions of American Mahjong began to take shape in the 1920s. During that time, the game was often played according to the rules in the booklet that came with the Mahjong set or the rulebook bought at a local store. Though many of these early variations have since faded into obscurity, two major versions have stood the test of time. The first was developed by spouses of Air Force officers stationed at Wright Field in Ohio. This variation, known as the Wright-Patterson approach, spread to military families worldwide. The second, and perhaps most enduring, was created by the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) in 1937. This version became particularly popular among Jewish American women, and in the decades surrounding World War II, it became an important social tradition in Jewish communities across the U.S. and beyond.
Today, the NMJL version is known as the “American Version” or “American Mahjong,” and is widely played across various communities in the United States and abroad.
One of the most remarkable things about Mahjong is its ability to transcend borders and cultures, evolving into countless variations around the globe. Each version brings its own unique characteristics to the game, yet all share the same enduring spirit of skill, strategy, and connection
