Choose plants with bold colors that can be seen from the curb. One of my favorites is the 'gartenmeister bonstedt' variety of fuschia. Best for an east or north facing garden. For sun, I like petunias. Not just the orange variety, but also bold reds and purples.
Ornamental grasses are also eye-catching.
I particularly like a fountain grass called rubrum, which has purply foliage and muted purple and pink flower spikes. They grow quickly and easily in full or partial sun. Don't forget fragrance. It smells kind of like a root beer float. The pretty clusters of purple flowers make a nice border for the pathway leading to the front door.