I don't think you're the only one here. When I first mentioned tossing the Dresden RPG at my usual tables (it sadly didn't fly), a few random options came up, and I know that if I ever did run it, some of these elements would come in.
First, some former games were mentioned; primarily Old World of Darkness was referenced. Some of the major NPCs (such as Chicago's Prince Lodin) and even some of our old PCs were mentioned to be brought in. A step away from typical literature and into something a bit more flexible, but still an amusing idea.
My flatmate referenced the old soap opera "Port Charles," and used it to add some flavor to his character concept. One of my friends from college mentioned the TV series "Kindred: The Embraced," while another made reference to the BBC show "Being Human." (The latter being a GREAT idea with the whole human choice vs monster nature often seen in Dresden. If you haven't seen it, I would HIGHLY suggest it).
Being the nerd that I am, I thought the idea of John Constantine (the comic, NOT the film version) or Dr. Occult being tossed in would also be rather interesting and somewhat fitting, whether just the characters or a Dresden-acceptable variant of themes.
If anything else comes up with the discussion I'm having with some out of town gamers this weekend, I'll try to remember to come back here and share the thoughts.