Mahjong’s All the Rage - A Thinking, Not Drinking Luncheon

November is here…and with it, that familiar mix of reflection, gathering, and just a touch of sparkle. This season, I found myself chasing curiosity again - this time, with a game that’s been quietly taking over coffee tables, kitchens, and garden patios alike: Mahjong.

 Everyone was talking about it, so naturally, I had to find out for myself what all the buzz was about. So, I hired a Mahjong instructor (yes, they exist!) and invited eleven friends for a little thinking-not-drinking luncheon. 

 Setting the Scene: Greenery & Gleam

Instead of fussing over florals, I leaned into greenery and silver - an ode to calm amidst the holiday rush. I stopped by Trader Joe’s and simply gathered every shade of green I could find: eucalyptus, ferns, mint, even sprigs of rosemary. I filled vintage glassware and crystal compotes with these natural textures at varying heights, letting the imperfections do the styling for me.

Down the center of the table, I layered silver trays with petite sandwiches - cucumber, chicken salad, and smoked salmon - the kind of fare that invites a pause rather than a feast. My vintage silver champagne bucket, a piece I’d been waiting to put to good use, finally got its moment holding a bottle of sparkling rosé. The result was fresh, timeless, and just a little bit nostalgic - the kind of table that feels like it could’ve belonged to your grandmother or your best friend. 

The Game Mahjong, I quickly learned, is not for the faint of heart. One hundred fifty-two tiny tiles, endless combinations, and a rulebook that makes poker seem like child’s play. But that’s what made it wonderful. By our second lesson, the rhythm started to click. There was laughter, a little friendly competition, and that distinct sense of focus that only comes when everyone’s learning something new together.

We realized that Mahjong isn’t just a game - it’s ritual. It’s a reminder that slowing down, thinking, and connecting can be just as energizing as any night out. It’s also a reason to gather - and in a world that glorifies multitasking, that might be the most luxurious act of all.

The Trophy Room Piece

At the heart of it all sat the day’s quiet star: a vintage bone and bamboo Mahjong set, this month’s Trophy Room feature. Hand-carved tiles, each etched and inked with characters and symbols, tucked neatly into a wooden case that has likely seen decades of afternoons just like ours. There’s something beautiful about reviving old objects for new stories. This Mahjong set reminded me that vintage pieces aren’t just décor — they’re catalysts for connection.

A Few Tips for Hosting Your Own Mahjong Luncheon

1. Pick a Palette. A single color - in my case, green - keeps the table cohesive and easy to style.
2.  Mix Old and New. Pair vintage crystal with everyday glassware. Add one silver accent piece - it doesn’t have to match, it just needs to shine.
3.  Keep the Menu Simple. Think finger sandwiches, tea cookies, and one special beverage (like sparkling rosé). The goal is conversation, not catering.
4.  Add a Keepsake. Every guest left with a small Hand-Picked by Heidi matchbox - a subtle way to keep the memory glowing.

The Takeaway

What began as curiosity became connection. Mahjong turned into an excuse to gather the girls, put our phones down, and share something new — not over wine, but over laughter and logic. If you’ve been meaning to try something new this season, consider a Mahjong luncheon. It’s equal parts strategy, style, and soul — a reminder that the best traditions are the ones we start ourselves. 

Shop the Look:   

• Vintage Bone & Bamboo Mahjong Set:
https://handpickedbyheidi.com/products/vintage-mahjong-set

• Daum France Crystal Vessel Swan:
https://handpickedbyheidi.com/products/daum-france-crystal-swan-vessel

•Marbro Style Handcut Crystal Brass Lamps: https://handpickedbyheidi.com/products/marbro-style-hand-cut-crystal-brass-lamps-hollywood-regency-elegance