Meet the Team
We’re four friends (and moms) who fell in love with Mahjong and never looked back. Whether you’re brand new to the game or brushing up your strategy, we’ll make sure you leave the table smiling.
Ali
Chief Mahjong Enthusiast & Lead Instructor
Hi, I’m Ali.
I traded my career as a marketing executive in New York City for life in Metro Detroit with my husband and three boys. Between sports, carpools, and community activities, I discovered a passion that quickly became much more than a hobby: Mahjong.
Growing up, I watched my mom and grandmother play Mahjong, but it wasn’t until I started playing with my sister and some friends that I truly fell in love with the game. As I began teaching friends a few years later, I realized my passion wasn’t just Mahjong itself—it was teaching others to learn.
Modern Mahj Michigan was created to make Mahjong approachable, social, stylish, and fun—whether you’re learning for the first time or gathering around the table with friends.
Mahjong is the perfect mix of strategy, luck, laughter, and connection. My favorite part? Watching complete beginners become confident players and seeing new friendships form around the table.
Turn screen time into quality time.
Jenny
Lead Instructor & Special Events Director
Hi, I’m Jenny.
As a mom of four, life is always busy, but I love finding ways to bring people together. Whether I’m playing pickleball, planning our next family adventure, or hunting for vintage treasures, I’m always looking for experiences that create connection.
When I learned Mahjong a few years ago, I was instantly hooked. What started as a new hobby quickly became one of my favorite ways to spend time with friends and family.
I love helping new players discover that Mahjong isn’t just a game—it’s a reason to gather, laugh, learn something new, and build community.
Brannon
Guided Play Instructor
Hi, I’m Brannon.
I’m a wife, mom of two teenage boys, part-time physician assistant, and lifelong lover of staying active. When I’m not on the tennis or pickleball court, you’ll likely find me planning my next trip—especially if it involves Europe.
I discovered Mahjong a couple of years ago and immediately fell in love with the game. For me, Mahjong is about so much more than strategy and tiles. It’s a chance to connect with friends, share laughs, and enjoy a little friendly competition.
I look forward to helping players build confidence and discover just how fun, social, and rewarding Mahjong can be.
Jenn
Guided Play Instructor & Photographer
Hi, I’m Jenn.
I’m a mom of four, a photographer, and the newest member of our Mahjong crew. Ali, Jenny, and Brannon invited me to join their weekly game, and it didn’t take long before I was hooked.
Of course I love the game itself, but what keeps me coming back is the community. Mahjong gives me a reason to step away from the daily chaos, enjoy uninterrupted adult conversation, and spend time laughing with friends.
I’m excited to help others discover not only the game, but also the friendships and connections that come with it.
A modern, social Mahjong experience.
From beginner lessons and private groups to community events and social play, Modern Mahj Michigan creates fun, approachable Mahjong experiences across Metro Detroit. We bring everything you need — tiles, racks, NMJL cards, and guided instruction — directly to you. No experience needed. We bring the setup, teach the game, and make learning feel easy. Just come ready to learn, laugh, and play.