For perennials try Sedum, Yarrow, Purple Coneflower, Black eye susans, Daylillies, Asian lillies, gayfeather, columbines, Tall Bearded Iris, Creeping Phlox. Those are some. remember to give them space because they all spread. All of these guys are heardy and drought tolerant.
Don't forget to plant Rosemary, Common Thyme, Lavender, Common Sage. Great herbs to have for cooking except for Lavender of course. You can use that for other things. For annuals check the labels and see what you like.
Ornamental grasses, just google it and see what you like. I have some and they grow well with little work.

Good luck.

As far as the bulbs go, most of them love direct sun. I usually plant mine anywhere from the end of August to the end of October.