What's Happening?
Marie Kondo, the renowned organization expert, is scheduled to return to London for the Home, Life & You LIVE event on October 17 and 18, 2026, at ExCeL London. This event, following its successful 2025 iteration, focuses on the interconnectedness of
home, lifestyle, and personal well-being. Kondo will introduce her new project, 'The Art of Tokimeki,' which aims to help individuals discover what truly matters and sparks joy, extending beyond mere decluttering to align homes and lives. The event will feature expert talks, live demonstrations, shopping opportunities from over 100 brands, and interactive experiences across three pillars: Home, Life, and You. These pillars cover topics such as interiors, organization, daily routines, productivity, personal growth, mindset, and self-development. The goal is to inspire attendees to create living spaces and routines that genuinely support their lives and well-being, rather than pursuing an idealized 'perfect' home.
Why It's Important?
Marie Kondo's continued influence, particularly with her new project 'The Art of Tokimeki,' highlights a significant cultural shift towards mindful living and intentional consumption in the U.S. and globally. Her approach, which emphasizes emotional connection to belongings and personal well-being, resonates with a growing number of Americans seeking to reduce clutter and create more harmonious living environments. This trend impacts the U.S. homeware and organizational product industries, as consumers increasingly prioritize items that serve a purpose and bring joy, rather than simply accumulating possessions. The event's focus on the holistic connection between home, lifestyle, and personal growth reflects a broader societal interest in self-improvement and mental wellness, influencing how products are marketed and how living spaces are designed. For businesses, understanding this shift means adapting product lines and marketing strategies to align with values of sustainability, functionality, and emotional well-being.
What's Next?
The Home, Life & You LIVE event is expected to further popularize Marie Kondo's 'The Art of Tokimeki' philosophy, potentially leading to increased demand for related books, courses, and organizational products in the U.S. Her return to a major public event suggests a continued evolution of her brand and methodology, which could inspire new trends in home organization and lifestyle design. The event's comprehensive approach, covering home, life, and personal development, may encourage a more integrated view of well-being among consumers, influencing their purchasing decisions across various sectors, from home goods to self-help resources. Additionally, the presence of numerous brands at the event indicates a growing market for products that support these lifestyle principles, suggesting that businesses will continue to innovate in areas like sustainable living, smart storage solutions, and items promoting mental and physical wellness. The KonMari team's course for future consultants also points to a professionalization of organizational services, creating new career opportunities.
Beyond the Headlines
Marie Kondo's enduring popularity and the evolution of her philosophy into 'The Art of Tokimeki' reflect a deeper societal yearning for control and meaning in an increasingly complex world. Beyond the practical aspects of decluttering, her methods tap into psychological needs for order, peace, and self-awareness. This cultural phenomenon has implications for consumer psychology, as individuals seek to curate their environments as an extension of their identity and values. The emphasis on 'tokimeki' (sparking joy) introduces an emotional and subjective dimension to consumption, challenging purely utilitarian or aesthetic considerations. This could lead to a more conscious approach to buying and owning, potentially reducing impulse purchases and fostering a greater appreciation for quality and longevity. The movement also highlights the ethical considerations of consumption, encouraging individuals to reflect on the environmental and social impact of their possessions, thereby influencing broader discussions on sustainability and responsible consumerism.
