Meet Stephen Yim, a self-proclaimed scent aficionado who can’t help but share his endless love for fragrance with the world. With a collection that spans over 200 bottles and a knack for discovering the beauty in even the most unexpected notes, he’s the go-to guide for everything fragrance-related. From choosing the perfect Valentine’s Day scent to understanding how the right fragrance can transform an experience, his insights are as inspiring as they are relatable.
In this Q&A, Stephen opens up about his personal fragrance journey, his top recommendations, and the moments that make scent such an intimate, transformative part of life. Whether you’re a seasoned fragrance lover or just starting to explore the world of scent, there’s something here to find and love for everyone.
What’s your favorite fragrance to wear on Valentine’s Day, and what vibe does it give off?
Thameen Green Pearl—it’s a very simple, elegant, and fresh fragrance.
Do you think wearing the right scent can elevate a date night experience? If so, how?
I think it all revolves around how you define the “right scent.” The right scent is different for everyone, but what makes it right is how it makes you feel. How you feel internally will reflect externally, and THAT is what elevates a date night experience.
If you could recommend one fragrance to men for Valentine’s Day, what would it be and why?
I recommend the fragrance that makes you the happiest or most confident. Whichever fragrance gives you the best memories or feels like you are putting on a suit of armor—that’s the right fragrance for you.
Do you have a signature scent, or do you like to switch it up for special occasions like Valentine’s Day?
I have almost 200+ bottles of fragrances, so I am always switching it up. I definitely get analysis paralysis sometimes and am still looking for my next signature.
What’s your take on matching fragrances as a couple—would you try it, and do you think it enhances the connection?
If we’re talking about wearing the same fragrance, I’m not the biggest proponent of that. A couple will naturally blend into each other, but sometimes it’s important to be different. I want to smell my partner and her scent of choice—what SHE chose for herself. Matching outfits is cute, but let’s keep some individuality. That’s what makes each of us special and what we fell for, isn’t it?
How do you go about testing and choosing a new fragrance—do you rely on first impressions, or do you let it settle?In the beginning, I would go off first impressions, but now I let it settle and test it for a week or so. That may be mundane to some, but I’ve learned that I can end up liking fragrances I absolutely hate initially.
What’s the most surprising note or scent you’ve discovered that you now love?
A recent discovery was that I really enjoy tea notes in fragrances. Fragrances like LV Imagination, Dolce & Gabbana Velvet Infusion, and BDK Gris Charnel are all examples of fragrances I love with tea notes.
Do you prefer discovering new fragrances in stores, through samples, or recommendations from others? What tips would you give to someone who’s just starting to explore fragrances and doesn’t know where to begin?
I make a lot of fragrance content and sometimes blind-buy fragrances other creators suggest…DON’T DO IT. It’s fun to be irresponsible sometimes, but please, do as I say, not as I do. DO NOT BLIND BUY A FRAGRANCE. Sample it before you buy. There are so many aspects to a fragrance that determine whether or not it works for you, but until you test it on your skin, you won’t truly know.
Watch is straight from the source, below!
