Not much sun could mean almost anything. You could grow many perennials with just a half day of sun and even vegeatables, but they could take longer to bear fruit, but then you wouldn't have to water as much. Just amend the soil, compost or manure. Start a compost pile for future use. If you can trim up some of the plants that are blocking the sun from getting to your spot. Adapt.

Here is a link that might be useful: Propagating Perennials

I'm in Richmond, but I'll add my 2 cents. If you are in the south and you've got shade, you can't go wrong with dogwood trees and azaleas. You won't have the most unique garden around, but they are a great start and will do well here. There are lots of varieties, so shop around. You can use these as a back drop and add some perennials around.

Welcome to the Commonwealth!
TBT

Here are some other ideas for great plants that do well in some shade:

oakleaf hydrangeas
hydrangea macrophylla or serrata
ferns
solomon seal
aruncus dioicus
jack-in-the-pulpit
hellebores
eleutherococcus sieboldianus 'Variegatus'

Japanese maples will appreciate some morning sun, but like to take the afternoons off.

If you're not a hosta-hater (people sometimes feel really strongly about them!) these are perfect shady-spot plants

These are generally all quite easy to grow and easy to find in local garden centers.