Today we’d like to introduce you to Chelsea Henderson.
Chelsea, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
People often ask how I got started in mahjong, and like many players, it all began with a simple invitation to a Mahjong and Martinis on a Monday night in May! My friend Kylie invited several women who overlapped in social circles to her house to learn how to play. While the card and mechanics of the game seemed overwhelming at first, I was instantly intrigued by the strategy, challenge, and social aspect of the game. The more I played, the more I fell in love with it. I loved meeting with my group and catching up and then playing mahjong together. We were all hooked.
Mahjong became more than just a game—it became a way to build friendships, gather around a table, and create meaningful connections. Our group started hosting theme nights regularly and people in our community were intrigued. In October, I was approached by at least 20 people who wanted to learn to play but I knew it was time intensive and with 3 littles at home, the only way was to start a side hustle. By the end of October, a local boutique booked me for a private event and 28 seats sold out in about 3 days. I was shocked and so excited and the momentum just built from there.
Mahjong has brought so much joy, community, and fun into my life, and I’m grateful every day that I said yes to that first invitation. I absolutely love the friendships that develop through my events and regular play at leagues. I have come to realize that so many people struggle to make friends in adulthood, whether its schedules or a new season of life. Mahjong is the activity we do on girls night but we keep coming back for so much more.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I have experienced struggles along the way in building ChelsDotBam. I am constantly having to adapt my business model to the industry and needs of my clients. Two years ago there were a lot more people who wanted to learn mahjong, while today my clientele wants to build strategy and community. I am constantly working to make sure my venues are happy with food and beverage minimums, space we are using, frequency of use, etc. while making sure I am in touch with what makes my clients happy and want to keep coming back. There are a lot of people entering the industry, which threatens over saturation. Some people try to copy exactly what you are doing or encroach in your local market but all of this is normal in our world today. I remind myself to stay focused on my journey, my brand and what I offer to the mahjong world. We can’t get too distracted by everyone and everything else! ChelsDotBam is all about bringing joy, connection, and a little sparkle to everyday life through the game of Mahjong! From mentoring and teaching the timeless game of mahjong to hosting fun, unforgettable events, we create spaces where women can learn, laugh, and feel right at home.
We’ve been impressed with ChelsDotBam, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
ChelsDotBam was born from a simple goal: creating a fun, welcoming space where women can connect, build friendships, and learn a game they can enjoy for a lifetime.
As an Official Oh My Mahjong instructor and Mahjong Mentor, I teach American Mahjong through private lessons, introductory classes, leagues, special events, corporate gatherings, country club programs, and community-based experiences throughout North Texas, primarily Prosper and Celina. Whether someone has never seen a mahjong tile before or is looking to sharpen their strategy, my goal is to make learning approachable, engaging, and confidence-building.
What sets ChelsDotBam apart is that I am about much more than mahjong. While the game brings people to the table, the real magic happens through the connections that are formed around it. My events are intentionally designed to create community, foster friendships, and give people a reason to gather, laugh, and unplug from their busy schedules.
I am known for creating unique, themed mahjong experiences that blend hospitality, creativity, and fun. From seasonal leagues to boutique collaborations and social events, every gathering is thoughtfully curated to make players feel welcomed and excited to return. I tend to wear a lot of Queen of Sparkles and other fun brands to my events because life is too short to be boring! Being extra is encouraged and just being who you are!
One of the things I’m most proud of is the community that has grown from a single mahjong table into a thriving network of players throughout Celina and Prosper. Watching complete beginners gain confidence, make new friends, and eventually teach others how to play has been incredibly rewarding. I love seeing so many people I have taught build their own communities, host themed mahjong parties in their homes, play aquajong at the lagoon, go on girls’ trips together, and so much more. It makes me the most happy and fulfilled when a client shares how mahjong brought them new friendships and joy to their life. Whether its moms of young kids, moms of elementary kids, empty nesters, or someone new to the area, everyone needs community!
At its core, ChelsDotBam is about bringing people together. Whether you’re looking to learn a new hobby, join a league, host a private event, or simply find your next girls’ night out, there’s a seat at the table for you. My hope is that every person who attends an event leaves with more than just a better understanding of mahjong—they leave feeling connected, encouraged, and already looking forward to the next game.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Instagram! I primarily connect with other mahjong instructors on instagram, as well as, mahjong brands!
Pricing:
- Intro to Mahjong; $80/person for 2-2.5 hours of instruction (average)
- Open Play: $40/person (average)
- League: 6 weeks $180 (subject to change)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chelsdotbam.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chelsdotbam
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568560700824
