What to plant with ornamental Dogwood?

I have a Dogwood on the way soon that I will be planting in a fairly shaded, damp area with rich soil. What would you plant with and around the Dogwood?

Also, do I need to protect this tree from the deer, as I do my baby fruit trees?

I'm SO excited. I love Dogwood and was always envious on my walks when I lived in Portland because I wanted one.