Ditto on don't worry about the bees.
I got stung this past summer when I brushed against a tall flower immediately after a rain storm, and that was a very unusual combination of events. Normally, I don't get stung, even when I "pet " the bees.
For weed prevention, try mulch.
For aggressive perennials, maybe ruellia brittonia, and rudbeckia Fulgida.
Also consider mountain mint.
