Trying to do too much
A small marketing budget is not necessarily a problem. Trying to do too much with it usually is.
Many small businesses spread their budget across several channels because they feel they should be doing a bit of everything. Some money goes into social media, some into paid ads, some into the website and some into software subscriptions that nobody really uses.
The result is often plenty of activity and very little clarity.
Start with the commercial goal
A better approach is to start with the commercial goal.
Do you want more calls, more enquiries, more bookings or more repeat customers? Once that is clear, it becomes much easier to decide where the money should go.
If most customers search online when they need your service, put more effort into your website and Google presence. If referrals bring in your best work, invest in staying visible to existing customers and professional contacts. If paid advertising produces profitable enquiries, keep using it.
Know what is working
The important part is knowing what is actually working.
You do not need a complicated reporting system. Keep a simple record of where enquiries come from, what you are spending and which activities lead to real business.
Then review it regularly.
Spend where there is a return
Good marketing on a small budget is mostly about focus. Spend where there is evidence of a return. Stop paying for things simply because they feel like part of marketing.