Not at all - it just looks that way at first! American Mahjong has a few moving parts, but once you understand the basics, the game becomes surprisingly intuitive. Most beginners go from “This looks complicated” to “Wait… I think I’ve got it!” very quickly.

With the Mahjong Made Simple method, you’ll learn the game step by step in a relaxed, supportive environment. The goal isn’t perfection - it’s getting comfortable enough to sit down at the table and start playing with confidence.

With my Mahjong Made Simple method, most beginners can start playing after just one lesson. Ongoing practice, social play, and continued learning help deepen your skills and comfort - and that’s where the real magic of the game unfolds.

No Chinese language skills are required.

American Mahjong, the version most commonly played in the United States, uses tiles with English letters and numbers. Players follow a yearly card published by the National Mah Jongg League that shows the possible winning hands.

Everything you need to know - tiles, patterns, and game flow - is taught clearly during your lessons.

Mahjong has several variations played around the world, but the two most commonly discussed are American Mahjong and Chinese Mahjong.

American Mahjong is the version most widely played in the United States. It uses a yearly card published by the National Mah Jongg League that lists the possible winning hands for that year. The game also includes special elements like jokers and the Charleston, which make the gameplay especially dynamic and social.

Chinese Mahjong follows a different scoring system and does not use the yearly card. The rules and winning hands are determined differently, and there are many regional variations.

At Master Your Mahjong, we teach American Mahjong, which is the version played in most clubs, communities, and social groups throughout St. Petersburg and the Tampa Bay area.

You can learn American Mahjong with Master Your Mahjong in several ways throughout the Tampa Bay area.

I offer:

• beginner Mahjong classes

• private lessons for small groups

• strategy workshops

• social Mahjong events and open play

Lessons and events take place in St. Petersburg, Gulfport, and throughout the Tampa Bay area (so, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties), with options for both in-person and virtual learning.

If you’re curious about Mahjong but not sure where to start, a beginner lesson is the perfect place to begin.

Yes! I offer private 1:1 Zoom lessons for those who want personal guidance from anywhere in the world. You’ll get a digital recap afterward so everything sticks.

Open Group Classes:

• Ideal for solo learners

• Structured, step-by-step beginner curriculum

• Great way to meet new friends and future table mates

Private Lessons:

• Customized to your pace

• Perfect for friend groups or small gatherings

• Flexible timing and location

Yes! I love when students bring their own sets - it helps you get comfortable with what you’ll use at home.

If you’re unsure whether your set works for American Mahjong, I’ll guide you through everything. Email me a pic of your set and I’ll help you figure it out!

I’ve happily - and successfully - taught Mahjong to groups of 1 to 50, so just about anything is possible.

Private lessons are perfect for 4–16 people, with a minimum of 4 attendees required. If your group has fewer than 4, no problem - you’re still welcome to book! You’ll simply cover the minimum lesson fee.

And yes, odd numbers are absolutely fine. Mahjong doesn’t require perfectly matched pairs to learn and play during a lesson.

For groups larger than 16, I recommend a custom event so everyone gets the right level of attention and support.

Yes! If you already know the basics and can play a full game with light guidance, come join us!

If you’re brand-new and have never learned or played, start with a Private Lesson or Group Class - you’ll be ready for socials in no time!

Yes! I love creating custom Mahjong experiences for private clubs, neighborhoods, corporate wellness events, charities, and private groups.

From relaxed “learn & play” gatherings to full beginner workshops, I can tailor something joyful, stylish, and fun for your group. Pricing is based on size, complexity, and level of involvement. Interested in learning more? Contact me and let’s chat!

You’ll receive a confirmation email with everything you need: location details, what to expect, and how to prepare.

For private lessons, you’ll also receive an email to capture all players’ contact information so that you and your friends can have the best mahj experience possible.

Life happens! I kindly ask for 48 hours’ notice to reschedule for another class/lesson within 6 weeks of the original booking date. No refunds are issued.

Events, large group classes, and multi-week programs may have unique policies - all details are shared when booking.