For Brian and Katie Harrison, life in Dilworth offers just what they were looking for: a close-knit community, walkable streets, great schools and plenty to do as a family.
Katie Harrison bought her first condo in Dilworth in 2013 and always hoped she would make her way back. In 2023 she did, with her husband, Brian, and their two children.
Two paths to Charlotte
Katie was born and raised in the Twin Cities and attended Bradley University in Illinois, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing. She moved to Charlotte immediately after graduating in 2006 and began a career in residential real estate. Now approaching 20 years in the industry, she works with Ivester Jackson Christie's.
Brian grew up in Raleigh and attended UNC Wilmington, where he also played soccer. He moved to Charlotte in 2012 after earning his master's degree. A licensed CPA who previously worked in tax and accounting, he has since shifted his focus to finance and is CFO of Setanta Capital Partners, a private lender focused on residential development.
Their paths crossed through Katie's work: she was Brian's real estate broker. Eventually, the professional relationship turned into something much more lasting.
Choosing Dilworth
When the couple began thinking about where to raise their family, Dilworth quickly rose to the top of the list. Both loved the urban lifestyle, and with their daughter approaching school age, Dilworth Elementary became an important factor.
Today she is 7, a first grader at Dilworth Elementary with an impressively full schedule. She plays soccer with Charlotte Junior Soccer, with Brian as her coach, and takes ballet at Jami Masters. She also enjoys reading, math, art, chess, swimming, music and piano, and especially loves making new friends.
Her 3-year-old brother attends First Presbyterian Weekday School in Uptown. He loves bowling, soccer, trains, numbers and playing with his friends and sister.
Soccer, travel and giving back
Many favorite moments happen close to home: friends on their street, pool parties, walks along the Rail Trail and a stop at a kid-friendly brewery.
Soccer remains a big part of family life. The Harrisons go to Charlotte FC games when they can, and the whole family cheers for Liverpool in the English Premier League and, closer to home, the Carolina Panthers.
Katie and Brian try to get to Europe at least once a year for a kid-free getaway; family vacations often mean their beach home on Hilton Head Island, plus quick trips to New York and Florida.
Brian has raised money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital through his training for the Chicago Marathon and is a regular supporter, and occasional participant, in Charlotte's 24 Hours of Booty.
Right where she hoped to be
"We walk everywhere! We love being in a quiet neighborhood but also having easy access to the hustle and bustle of South End and Dilworth," the Harrisons say.
Even after just three years, they have been struck by the sense of community and how quickly neighbors become friends. Halloween has become a particular favorite for the children, who love seeing how enthusiastically Dilworth residents embrace the holiday. NoDa, Plaza Midwood, SouthPark and Matthews are all within easy reach, and Charlotte Douglas International Airport makes the couple's love of international travel much more convenient.
The Harrisons are right where Katie once hoped she would return: at home in Dilworth.
This story appears in the November 2026 issue of Stroll Dilworth.