An addictive, compliment-worthy scent is always the blueprint, but I want my date-night perfume to be downright mouthwatering. It seems my friend group would agree, as I’ve been pinged for sizzling perfume recs to buy ahead of Valentine’s Day. (I clearly surround myself with some very prompt beauty fans!) My answer? Opt for something sweet that doesn’t read too syrupy, ideally with a spicy or woodsy edge to add a little mystery—something like Ellis Brooklyn’s Bee.

The honey-, vanilla bean-, and cocoa absolute-infused blend definitely falls into gourmand territory, but the addition of dark rum, cinnamon, and sandalwood cut through that unapologetic sweetness with a warm, spicy flair. It’s my ultimate party perfume (aka, the perfect scent for a night out), as it has dark, sultry dry-down with incredible sillage for all-night wear. And while I certainly don’t need external praise on the fragrances I choose to wear (if I love it, that’s enough!), I can’t help but notice how others quite literally go berserk for the unique blend. My husband, for one, has actually grasped my wrist so he could catch a closer whiff, like a bee drawn to honey.