In this couple’s own words about their professional pursuits in Greenpoint, pioneering blogger Grace Bonney humbly says, “I run a website about design;” her talented wife, Julia Turshen, answers in equal modesty, “I write about food. And I do a lot of dishes.” In honor of Valentine’s Day, we asked these creative newlyweds to tell us more about their lives together in the neighborhood.
GP: When/why did you decide to move to Greenpoint?
Julia: For love.
Grace: It’s where my roommate (who I found through Craigslist while I was finishing up my last year of college) found an affordable 2-bedroom apartment. I didn’t love Greenpoint at first, and moved to Williamsburg and Park Slope for a bit. Then I moved back and felt it was where I should have been all along. It’s so comfortable here.
GP: What do you love about living and working in Greenpoint?
Julia: Work wise, I love all of the Polish markets, butchers, delicatessens and produce stores. Personally, I love being near McCarren Park and watching our dog, Hope, run around it in the morning (if I can wake up early enough).
Grace: I’ve lived and worked in Greenpoint for the better part of 10 years, so it’s the place I truly feel at home in New York. I love how quiet it is (although we moved closer to the park for Hope, and now it’s a little louder in this part of the neighborhood), how remote the northern part feels and how many people I’ve gotten to know over the years who run shops and restaurants. It feels like the closest thing to a real neighborhood community I’ve known.
GP: Where are your favorite date nights or romantic spots in the neighborhood?
Grace and Julia: We had our first date at Five Leaves and still like an early dinner there (before it gets too crowded). We also like Selamat Pagi when we want an escape to Bali.
Thank you so much, Grace and Julia!