About Us

OUR STORY

You are probably here because you want a mahjong set that you connect with: a set that's meaningful, beautiful, and is part of your story. That's what we went looking for, too, but we couldn't find it. We're Catherine and Ellie, a mother-and-daughter team from La Jolla, California.

When we searched for a tile set to own, we looked for something that reflected the beauty and spirit of the Southern California coast, where we live and to which we have a deep connection. When we didn't find it, we decided to make one for ourselves.

Ellie, an artist and graphic designer who grew up at the beach, sketched surfboards and seagulls, sea kelp and sea lions -- images from summer days that summon a nostalgic feeling of being on the coast. When we finalized the Windansea surf shack for our soap and the Torrey Pines gliders as our winds, we decided to make this set available to others, too. So many people have strong connections to San Diego, La Jolla, and the majestic California coast. Ivey Lee Mahjong -- a combination of both of our last names -- was born. 

THE LA JOLLA TILES 
Each tile design began as a hand-drawn sketch, then was then recreated in digital form. To bring the 2D designs into 3D reality, we sought import help from our good friend Amy Carichner, principal of the woman-owned PrintWorksEtc, and production design expertise of Julie Sato, principal of Sato Design Studio, who ensured that our original design details stood out. 

OUR PROMISE 
We put our names on this brand because we stand behind what we've made. The La Jolla Tiles are a tribute to La Jolla as well as to the entire West Coast way of life here. Our tiles reflect the relaxed, vibrant spirit of living by the beautiful, ever-changing Pacific and a deep appreciation for a balanced, nature-filled life. If you're not satisfied with one of our products, we promise to make it right for you. 

We hope these tiles bring as much joy to your table as making them together has brought to ours. 

— Catherine & Ellie