Meet Robyn
Hi, I'm Robyn Macklin, owner and instructor behind Midnight Orchid Mahjong, based in the rolling hills of Valley Center, California. I teach beginner American Mahjong from my home and travel throughout North County San Diego for private lessons, community groups, and special events.
I first learned American Mahjong from a family friend while we were camping, and I was instantly hooked. What started as curiosity turned into a full rabbit-hole dive — videos, classes, and now several games a week, because I genuinely love this game.
My teaching style is patient and step-by-step, but I'll be upfront: I'm also a little neuro-spicy, and my brain runs on its own soundtrack. Don't be surprised if a lesson comes with a stray song lyric, a terrible pun, or a slightly ridiculous comparison to help a rule stick. If singing one line from a song helps you remember it six months later, I'm calling that a win.
“Here’s the part that matters most, though: learning Mahjong is only the beginning. My goal isn’t just to teach you the rules and send you on your way — it’s to help you become a confident player with people to play with. That’s why every student gets complimentary Guided Play after class: an ongoing chance to practice, ask questions, meet other players, and build real confidence before you’re out there on your own.
When my students are meeting up, laughing together, and playing without me, that’s when I know I’ve done my job.
If you leave a lesson feeling less intimidated by the card, a little more confident, and excited about the Mahjong people you’re about to meet, I’ve done exactly what I set out to do.”
