IN THIS ISSUE · SPRING 2026 — Read the cover story
Mahjong may be experiencing a nationwide resurgence, but in the Upper Cumberland, Keaton Place, Jongee’s Gifts & Fine Furnishings, and The Parlor are helping transform the centuries-old game into something far bigger than a trend.
What started as a friendship between two mother-daughter boutique teams quickly evolved into a shared vision. United by their love of Mahjong and their passion for creating meaningful experiences, Kate Pritchett of Keaton Place and Julia Gaffaney of Jongee’s recognized an opportunity to bring something unique to the Upper Cumberland.
“We connected so naturally over our similar lives as daughters who both own shops with our mothers, our shared love of Mahjong, and our passion for creating welcoming, community-driven businesses,” said Kate Pritchett, co-owner of Keaton Place alongside her mother, Jennifer Officer. “What started as one event quickly turned into something bigger; friendship and partnership rooted in uplifting each other, collaborating instead of competing, and creating fun experiences for women in the Upper Cumberland.”
That vision has since grown into one of the most active Mahjong communities in Middle Tennessee. Through monthly beginner lessons at Keaton Place, leagues, open play sessions, special events, girls’ nights, and curated retail collections, the businesses have become a premier destination for players looking to learn, play, and connect.
“Honestly, we could have easily chosen to activate Mahjong separately in our own stores, but it’s been so much more fun building it together,” said Julia Gaffaney, co-owner of Jongee’s alongside her mother, Jongee Cheek. “Our individual strengths naturally complement each other, and combining our businesses, creativity, and customer bases has allowed us to create a much more elevated and thoughtfully curated experience.”
At the center of that experience is The Parlor, Jongee’s newly renovated 52-seat Mahjong venue located on the third floor of the downtown Sparta boutique. Designed specifically for Mahjong lessons, leagues, social events, and open play, The Parlor has quickly become a destination for players from across the Upper Cumberland and beyond.
“The vision for The Parlor was to create a beautiful, elevated gathering space where women could slow down, feel inspired, challenge themselves, elevate their love of Mahjong, and experience the joy of gathering,” explained Gaffaney.
In addition to events and education, Keaton Place and Jongee’s have also become one of the region’s leading Mahjong retail destinations, offering one of the area’s largest assortments of Mahjong tiles, accessories, gifts, and game essentials for both new and seasoned players.
The response has exceeded expectations. Women of all ages are embracing the game, not only because of the challenge it offers, but because of the friendships and sense of belonging being built around the table.
“Mahjong has become more than a game because it has created a space where we can all slow down, connect with each other, and build real friendships around the table,” said Pritchett. “We genuinely believe there’s a seat for everyone at the table.”
As the Mahjong community continues to grow, so does the impact these gatherings are having across the Upper Cumberland. Through Keaton Place, Jongee’s, and The Parlor, the tables are filling with far more than tiles. They are filling with laughter, encouragement, conversation, and connection. What began as a shared interest between two boutique owners has evolved into a movement that is helping women build friendships, learn new skills, and rediscover the joy of gathering together.
Find upcoming classes and events by following Keaton Place on Facebook and Jongees on Facebook.
By Chelsea Dartez | Photos by Kate Pritchett
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