Where to put a drink beside an outdoor couch
Plan the spot around cushions and access.

Start with the occupied seat
Sit where you will relax, then choose a spot reachable without leaning across another person. Avoid using the narrow top of a sofa arm.
Check outdoor cushions
Deep seams and soft weather cushions can shift under a base. A nearby rigid side table is preferable when the cushion compresses.
Keep the garden route open
Leave the route to doors, steps and garden beds clear. A drink at the edge of the walking route is still vulnerable to a passing foot or bag.