What is your name and occupation?
Marnely Murray, Social Media Marketer and Chef
How long have you been a Boston Business Women’s Member?
Less than a year
What is your Instagram handle?
@marnely_murray
What is your LinkedIn URL?
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnely/
Were you born and raised in Boston? If not, what brought you here?
No, I was born and raised in the Dominican Republic and moved to Martha’s Vineyard, MA ten years ago to pursue my cooking career.
Tell us more about your job or company and what led you to your career?
A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, I now work as a sous chef, food blogger, and social media manager on Martha’s Vineyard. My love for food takes me all over the globe, and that’s how I got started in the world of social media.
As the creator of Cooking with Books, I’ve built a brand with over 40,000 followers across platforms. Beyond managing social media for island-based clients, I also serve as a brand strategist for national food brands.
My approach to social media focuses on consistency and beautiful visuals—because while a tweet may only be 280 characters, a photo can tell a story a thousand words long. Alongside my business partner Angela, we manage the social media presence of some of the island’s top businesses daily.
What would your clients say about you and your company?
We’re known for our quick replies, creativity, and ability to showcase every brand in the best light possible.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
“Leap and the net will appear.” — I first saw it on a greeting card, and it’s inspired me ever since.
What is your favorite book?
The Four Agreements
What is your secret weapon? An app, a tool, an organization method, anything?! (Can be a personal or professional life tool)
Buffer! Without it for scheduling posts, there’s no way we’d manage client accounts and still have balance. During the busy spring and summer months, I also wake up at 5 a.m. to get four hours of focused work done before heading into the restaurant.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Trust your instincts. Your gut instinct is real—and it’s there for a reason. Always go with it.
How do you enjoy your free time?
Reading and traveling. During restaurant season, my days are long and full, so quiet time with a good book is pure joy.
What is something that not many people know about you?
I’m an introvert.