Red Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa) are quite deer-resistant. They receive top rating ("A") by Rutgers. Red Chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia) is prone to some grazing. That gets a "B" by Rutgers standards. Here's my go-to link for deer:
http://njaes.rutgers.edu/deerr....
Welcome to NGA, and best of luck with the new residents. Do keep them well watered, whether you decided to put them in the ground sooner or later. And erring on the side of shade is definitely wise. The advice here is good.
