Vendors and Covid

This would all come down to the contract and how it's written. Unfortunately for you, the contract probably doesn't have a clause where he refunds the deposit if you cancel, since most don't do it that way. This would probably qualify as you canceling since the state is still allowing weddings, so it doesn't fall under the "Acts of God" clause anymore. So sorry you're out so much money!!

I'm losing $1,100 because we downgraded from an 8 hour ceremony/reception videographer session to an elopement style. I lost half of my DJ deposit. These are all things listed in the contract. All I can say is, you unfortunately have to accept it if it's in the contract. But that doesn't mean you can't write about it in their online reviews. Obviously don't sound spiteful in your review if you do choose that route, but lay the facts out "I was getting married in FL, had to alter my plans because of a pandemic and was not given a refund." They can't really dispute anything that's true.