About The Gilded Tile

Hi, I'm Katie.

I moved to Madison, WI from Lake Geneva in the fall of 2025 and I found myself facing a question many newly relocated people ask:

How do you build meaningful connections when you're no longer meeting people through young children, school activities, or the routines that once brought people together?

For me, the answer first came through pickleball and Mahjong. .

The courts became a place to meet people, share stories, and begin building friendships in a new city. Madison gradually began to feel like home.

At the same time, I was surprised to discover that while Mahjong was thriving in many parts of the country, there weren't many opportunities to play here. As someone who loved the game and the connections it creates, I saw an opportunity.

That's when I realized something important:

Mahjong isn't really about the tiles. It's about the table.

The Gilded Tile was created to bring people together around a game that is strategic, social, and endlessly engaging. My goal is not simply to teach Mahjong, but to create welcoming spaces where people can gather, learn, laugh, and connect.

Whether you're brand new to Mahjong, new to Madison, recently retired, or simply looking to expand your circle, there's a seat waiting for you at the table. Come join the fun!

I hope to meet you soon.

Katie Wales
Founder, The Gilded Tile