Megan Jett Trottier, founder of Oh My Mahjong, started playing the game in college but came back to it during the pandemic. How its popularity has grown since then—especially with fellow moms—hasn’t surprised her one bit. “Moms are juggling so much, and this gives you a dedicated time to sit down with friends, laugh, and focus on something that’s just for you,” says Megan, herself a mom of two.
She says her brand Oh My Mahjong is a natural extension of her love of design and hosting. Launched out of her garage during COVID, her high-end designs, colorful tiles and custom mats are well-known among mahjong fans. Her website has also grown to be a resource for those looking to start the game. “It grew organically from there into something much bigger, rooted in bringing people together and creating a beautiful, approachable way to learn and play American Mahjong,” says Megan.
In this week’s Meet a Mom interview, we asked Megan about her best tips for beginners and experienced players, faux pas to avoid, and more.
Why do you think mahjong has enjoyed such continued popularity?
I think people are craving connection in a more meaningful way. We’re all so used to being on our phones, and mahjong gives you a reason to put everything down and engage. It’s social, it’s a little competitive, and it keeps your brain active. Once you learn, it becomes something you want to keep coming back to every week.
What’s your advice for someone who wants to learn?
The best way to learn is definitely in a group. It makes it more fun and less intimidating. We have a network of Mahji Mentors across the country who teach lessons and host events, which is a great place to start. Learning with friends helps everything click faster, and it turns into something you can keep doing together.
How do you explain the game to beginners?
American Mahjong is a tile game where you’re drawing and discarding to build a specific pattern of tiles based on a card. The first person to complete their hand wins. My biggest advice is to give yourself a few lessons to get the hang of it. It can feel confusing at first, but it clicks faster than you think.
What do you need to get started?
To start playing, you need a set of tiles, four National Mah Jongg League playing cards, and four racks.
What are some etiquette tips for newbies at mahjong?
Put the phone away. We’re all on our screens all day, and this is your chance to unplug and actually be present. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Everyone has been a beginner at some point.
What’s your best advice for someone who has played for a while and is looking to take their game to the next level?
Start paying attention to what other people are discarding and calling. The more you understand what’s happening around the table, the better your strategy becomes. It turns into a bit of a puzzle, which is part of what makes it so addictive.
Anything else you’d like to share?
At the end of the day, it’s really about the people you’re playing with. The game is fun, but the connection is what keeps you coming back.
