South Jersey Garden needs help

[Marine Corps finest]

I am new to the site and new to gardening. I live in South Jersey and have 2 gardens built with nothing yet put into them. The soil has good drainage and seems to look very well but I have been told its very acidic. I do not want solid green bushes or I think they are called evergreens. What I am looking for is some variety of colored plants, bushes or shrubs that will grow and either last through the winters or come back every year. Oh almost forgot both areas get direct sunlight all day long. I bought a house with no trees or shade LOL. Any help would be greatly appreciated Thank you