Ty Reichel & Ziggy Poplin of Mahjong South
Later, Bunco. Move over, Pickleball. There’s a new craze in town. Only it’s not new; it’s very old. And it’s making a remarkable comeback.
I’m talking, of course, about mahjong. Originating in China in the mid-19th Century, then gaining global popularity in the 1920s – and becoming all the rage with Jewish-American housewives in the 1950s – Mahjong is currently in the throes of a widespread revival.
And Beaufort is right on trend, thanks to a couple of dynamic local women who love the game and saw a great opportunity to turn that passion into a business.
I recently caught up with Ziggy Poplin and Ty Reichel to talk about their new endeavor, Mahjong South.
How did you two get the idea to start Mahjong South?
We love mahjong, but we may love a good party even more!
We realized the magic wasn’t only in the game – it was everything happening around the table: the laughter, the stories, the beautiful settings, and the friendships being made.
We wanted to offer women a place to come as they are, find a seat at the table, and hopefully leave with a few new friends. Mahjong South was born from our love of Southern hospitality, beautiful details, and bringing women together.
Why do you think Mahjong has suddenly become so popular again? What do you and other enthusiasts love about it?
Because it is the perfect combination of thinking, laughing, and socializing – and no one has to stare at a screen! Women are hungry for real connection. Mahjong gives us permission to sit down for a few hours, forget our to-do lists, and have fun. It is challenging enough to keep you interested, but social enough that you can still talk – and we definitely do plenty of that! And let’s be honest: the beautiful tiles, mats, racks and accessories don’t hurt. Mahjong has become a game, a gathering, and practically a decorating opportunity!
You have your first big event coming up, and it sounds like a blast! Tell us about it. Also, what are your plans for the future of the business? What can people look forward to?
Our Mama’s Mahjong Social is August 17–19 in Beaufort, and it will be three days of mahjong, shopping, wonderful food, a guest speaker, door prizes, and plenty of time to connect. We want it to feel like a getaway without having to travel far from home.
Mama’s Mahjong Social is essentially summer camp for grown women! You can arrive knowing no one and leave with a whole new group of friends. And we are only getting started!
Looking forward – we are creating destination getaways, beginner lessons, private parties, and special events throughout the South. Our next getaway is at The Willcox in Aiken, and we have more beautiful locations ahead. No two Mahjong South events will be exactly alike. We want our guests wondering, “What are Ty and Ziggy going to dream up next?” Our goal is to make Mahjong South the invitation you never want to miss! Each experience will be unique, but everything we do will remain centered around gracious hospitality, joyful play, and bringing people together.
We like to say that Mahjong South is not simply about teaching people how to play – it is about helping them find their place at the table.
How hard is it to learn the game?
It is a little like learning a new language – except this language comes with snacks and friends!
The first time you see the tiles and the card, you may wonder what you have gotten yourself into. But once someone breaks it down, it begins to click. You will not master it in one afternoon, and that is part of the fun. We tell beginners: bring your patience, bring your sense of humor, and do not be afraid to ask questions. We promise it will become your newest obsession!
Do any men play mahjong?
Absolutely! Men play all over the world – and some are very serious about it. We may need to package it differently here in the South. We may just put bourbon on the table, call it “Mahjong After Dark,” and suddenly the men may become very interested… But they should be warned: the women have been practicing!
For more information about Mahjong South, contact Ty and Ziggy at mahjongsouth@gmail.com or also follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
