Holy Mahj Brings Mahjong Fun to Charleston with New League
Charleston is buzzing with excitement as two creative friends have taken their love for the classic game of mahjong to a whole new level! Anne Ruder and Caroline Riley, who became pals while attending playdates with their kids, found a shared passion for this strategic tile-based game and decided to transform their hobby into a thriving business. Just last November, the pair started learning how to play mahjong, and soon formed a small group that met weekly to enjoy the game together. What started as a casual gathering quickly blossomed!
From Friends to Business Partners
“We started teaching friends of friends, and that just snowballed,” Ruder noted. Their first big event was at the Post House, and it was a hit! “The business started and grew very organically through the relationships with the people we teach and the partnerships we’ve created,” she adds, highlighting how supportive and welcoming the Charleston community has been.
The duo set up Holy Mahj, which is now known for its lively pop-up events hosted in stylish venues around town. They managed to create a vibrant and welcoming brand that resonates with mahjong enthusiasts of all ages. Every pop-up features curated music playlists, beautifully decorated tables, and eye-catching tiles sourced from the Dallas-based company, The Mahjong Line. “We want people to be able to look at a table and say, ‘Oh, that’s Holy Mahj!’” Riley explains, showing their commitment to crafting a distinctive atmosphere.
A New Mahjong League: The Tuesday Club
This month marks a new chapter for Holy Mahj as they kick off their much-anticipated team league, aptly named The Tuesday Club. This exciting 12-week league will take place at The Rutledge Room and promises to be a fantastic gathering for those keen on showcasing their mahjong skills while forming new friendships. In addition to the league, Holy Mahj also hosts private events—what better way to celebrate a birthday or baby shower than with some friendly mahjong competition?!
Ruder and Riley’s idea was not just to create a business, but also to build a community. “We try to cater to what the community wants,” Ruder emphasized. The most rewarding aspect of their job is witnessing the relationships form among players. It’s about much more than just the game; it’s about creating connections.
Looking Ahead
The future is looking bright for these two entrepreneurs. They have aspirations to create their own product line and even plan to hire teachers in various parts of the country to expand their beloved game beyond the Lowcountry. With their passion for mahjong and community building, it’s certain that Holy Mahj will continue to grow and thrive.
For now, the residents of Charleston can look forward to what is sure to be an exciting season of mahjong, friends, and community bonding at the Holy Mahj events. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a curious first-timer, there’s a spot waiting for you at the table!
Join the Fun!
If you’re in Charleston and interested in joining this new league or hosting a private mahjong gathering, be sure to check out what Holy Mahj has to offer. With their engaging community spirit and dedication to making mahjong accessible to everyone, it’s a great opportunity to dive into the game and enjoy a fun, social experience!
