The story of desire begins with the Greek god Eros, the primordial force of lust, love, and passion. Around 700 BC, Greek folklore described Eros as the handsome son of Aphrodite, possessing a knack for making mortals and gods alike fall head over heels. The Romans adopted this mythology, renaming him Cupid—a Latin word that itself translates to “desire.”
Here are this year’s most desirable gift ideas for your modern-day Cupid.
Penhaligon has created this scent titled, The Blazing Mister Sam in honor of the angelic cherub while combining various spices that mingle with patchouli and the refreshing scent of cedar. No one can quite resist Sam’s charms. “Yeehaw,” as this British company states, along with the bull head on it’s bottle, this scent is perfect for your ‘Mister Sam’ or ‘Colonel Blimp’. If your Cupid’s playground is Wall Street or the world of finance, this may be their new signature scent. Check it out here.
Scent of Nirvana is a delicate blend of woody, amber, and floral notes. While Caftari is also celebrated for its popular spa candles and gift boxes, this little luxury will remind your Cupid of a home in the clouds. The 0.3 fluid ounce vial is perfect for travel, whether for business or pleasure. Easily slip one into Cupid’s shaving kit for your next weekend getaway or business trip.
LBTY Liberty Maze is also my top pick brand from our English scent makers. While the French have had a great run and are the masters of capturing elements to enhance and inspire the olfactory, this scent’s notes include: Bergamot, Earl grey tea, Neroli and Silver birch. I highly recommend this fragrance for the intellectual, historian, and bookish type. Once again, the 3.0 oz. test tube-sized container is ideal for those who are always on the go.
The HydroBag is the perfect accessory for the outdoors enthusiast—anyone who hikes, walks, rides, or just loves fresh water on the go. It’s made by WanderFullBrand and makes the perfect gift as it comes with multiple pockets to hold keys, a wallet, ID as well as a thermos or water bottle. Be sure to check out all their products, which come in various colors, styles, and a game day collection, plus keep an eye out for “Flash Sales.”
Elevate the environment of your bow-and-arrow-wielding Cupid’s bath, workspace, or office with a Fragrance Diffuser by Carrère Frères. While several scents are available, I found their Castanea to be the most pleasant, subtle, and distinctly masculine. For a seasonal touch, you may also want to choose their latest Chestnut diffuser or one of their many candles. Established in 1884, this company boasts a consistent and proven track record of excellence.
If you feel the need to truly splurge this Valentine’s Day, a piece of fine jewelry is the answer. I’ve recently rediscovered the incomparable artisanship of David Yurman. Their designs range from intricate chains and pendants to magnificent single jewel earrings, bracelets, and band rings. For the new collection, I highly recommend checking out their amulets and the Chevron Tag, as I find both pieces exceptional in design and material.
If Paris is the city of love but a little too far to travel this Valentine’s Day, why not book a weekend getaway at the most Parisian hot spot in New York City. I recommend the Sofitel New York on 45th Street located in between 5th and 6th Avenues. This place combines the passionate pace, excitement and luxury of Midtown Manhattan with the Champs-Élysées. They are offering special packages for the holiday.
I also chose this hotel because it’s within easy walking distance of all the best Broadway shows. My top recommendation is tickets to see or revisit the dazzling Moulin Rouge, which has been playing at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre for over 20 years. The hotel concierge can assist you with arranging tickets.
Valentine’s Day is Saturday, February 14th, 2026.
Photos: P.K. Greenfield and Companies
