After more than 20 years in marketing, communications, and event planning, Arabella Hibbert stepped away from her career to raise her family, searching for something that would challenge her mind and restore her sense of community. That something turned out to be mahjong.
Specifically, the creation of Marchesa Mahjong.
What began as a single casual lesson quickly grew into a passion she now plays five to six times a week, and ultimately, a business. Arabella founded Marchesa Mahjong to share the joy, laughter, and connection the game had brought to her own life.
Mahjong Fun Facts
Global Reach
- Estimated 600 million players worldwide
- Played in over 40 countries
- At least 40 known regional variants of the game exist
Cultural Footprint
- Recognized by UNESCO as part of China’s intangible cultural heritage
- One of the most commercially successful tile games ever produced
- The Crazy Rich Asians mahjong scene (2018) is widely credited with sparking renewed mainstream interest in the West
Tap below to watch/listen the podcast.