Many of the big box stores are slashing prices so you might want to visit some and see what you can find. Also Costco and I assume their competitors carry bulbs in the fall inexpensively. 50 bulls for under $15.00. You might want to look for a dogwood or redbud for spring and if you find any perennials slashed buy them and see what soil conditions they need and when they bloom. Do your homework after.

Gardenias aren't really beginner plants in our climate. They will break your heart! There is a reason you find azaleas everywhere in eastern Va. The soil and weather make them feel right at home here. Tulips are great but they sometimes peter out after a few years while daffodils will bloom reliably and increase until you need to divide them. Lots of animals find tulip and lily bulbs tasty--nothing eats daffodils, not even deer. Sedum Autumn Joy is easy to grow and looks good in all seasons. Lots of people have them and they grow easily from cuttings. You would probably have to wait more than a year for peonies but they are tough and drop dead gorgeous! If I were you I'd plant at least one bare root this fall.

Just a few random thoughts--welcome to Virginia, Daisy.

Be careful of what you buy from the big box stores. Many of their plants are excellent but it's not at all unusual for them to be so stressed from lack of water and care that they will die before they have a chance to get established. Check to see if the plant looks healthy and green, look for signs of insect or disease infestation, be sure it's well watered and not root bound. These things should help assure you get good plants. Being a beginner, you might be better off to go to a reputable nursery and ask for help and advice.