Schmidt and Cece’s journey to the altar was filled with hilarious highs and heartbreaking lows, making their eventual engagement a truly momentous occasion for fans. They officially solidified their commitment to one another in Season 5, Episode 15, titled “The Apartment.”
A Love Story Years in the Making
Their relationship, characterized by Schmidt’s awkward charm and Cece’s no-nonsense attitude, blossomed from a casual fling into a deep, enduring love. Their engagement marked not just a personal milestone, but also a pivotal moment in the show, signifying a shift towards more mature storylines and solidifying the ensemble’s future trajectory. “The Apartment” episode beautifully encapsulates this growth, showcasing their unwavering dedication to building a life together.
The Significance of “The Apartment”
The title itself offers a clue. The narrative revolves around Schmidt desperately trying to secure the apartment across the hall from the gang’s loft, intending it to be the couple’s future home. This ambition, fueled by his love for Cece, symbolizes his readiness to commit and build a shared future. The humor and heart woven into the episode make the proposal even more impactful. The eventual realization that they would need to rent the apartment and not purchase it, despite the financial implications, is what prompted the proposal.
Decoding the Proposal Scene
The proposal itself is quintessential Schmidt: over-the-top, slightly clumsy, but ultimately heartfelt. Driven by the realization that he wanted to provide Cece with a stable future, even if it meant compromising on his initial vision of owning their dream home, Schmidt pulls out the engagement ring. In the face of financial hardship, his priority was to marry Cece and become her husband. In an outpouring of love, Schmidt asked Cece to marry him and become his wife. Cece responded with an equally emotional and loving acceptance.
FAQs: Diving Deeper into Schmidt and Cece’s Engagement
Here’s a detailed look at some frequently asked questions regarding Schmidt and Cece’s engagement and their relationship leading up to that pivotal moment:
Q1: What were the challenges Schmidt and Cece faced before getting engaged?
Schmidt and Cece’s relationship was far from smooth sailing. They navigated several hurdles, including Schmidt’s initial immaturity, his past relationships (particularly with Elizabeth and Fawn Moscato), their break-up and subsequent friendship, and Cece’s own relationship with Shivrang. Ultimately, their unwavering feelings for each other helped them overcome these challenges. Schmidt’s personal growth was paramount in their relationship’s success.
Q2: Was Cece previously engaged or married before Schmidt?
Prior to her engagement to Schmidt, Cece had a brief arranged marriage to Shivrang, stemming from pressure from her mother and cultural expectations. However, she realized she couldn’t go through with it due to her lingering feelings for Schmidt. This experience further highlighted her need for genuine love and connection, solidifying her path toward Schmidt.
Q3: Did Schmidt have other serious relationships before Cece?
Yes, Schmidt had a few notable serious relationships before committing to Cece. His most prominent were with Elizabeth, his college girlfriend, and Fawn Moscato, a city councilwoman. These relationships ultimately failed due to Schmidt’s own shortcomings and his inability to fully commit himself.
Q4: What kind of engagement ring did Schmidt give Cece?
The engagement ring Schmidt presents to Cece is a vintage-style ring with a central diamond and intricate detailing. It reflects his penchant for elegance and his desire to give her something truly special. The fact that it wasn’t a new, generic ring also aligns with his character’s quirky personality.
Q5: How did the other roommates react to the engagement news?
The roommates, Nick, Jess, and Winston, were overwhelmingly supportive and excited about Schmidt and Cece’s engagement. They had witnessed their tumultuous journey firsthand and were thrilled to see them finally committing to each other. The event prompted the whole gang to be overjoyed and to celebrate the engagement.
Q6: What was the significance of Schmidt wanting the apartment across the hall?
The apartment represented Schmidt’s desire to provide Cece with a stable and comfortable future. It symbolized his willingness to invest in their relationship and build a home together. He envisioned it as their sanctuary, a place where they could start their lives as a married couple. Ultimately, the fact that he had to compromise to acquire it makes the scene of him asking Cece to marry him even more poignant.
Q7: Did Schmidt and Cece have a long engagement?
Schmidt and Cece did not have a particularly long engagement. The subsequent seasons of New Girl showed the preparations for the wedding and eventually their nuptials. The wedding preparations themselves were a significant part of the plot for the following season.
Q8: What were some of the obstacles they faced while planning their wedding?
The wedding planning process was anything but smooth, filled with comedic mishaps and unforeseen challenges. From cultural clashes between their families to unexpected venue issues, Schmidt and Cece faced numerous obstacles that tested their patience and resolve. In the end, the wedding was moved to the loft and the gang came together to make their wedding day everything that it should be.
Q9: Where did Schmidt and Cece eventually get married?
Due to a series of comical mishaps, Schmidt and Cece’s wedding was not at the venue that they initially planned. Eventually, the whole gang pulled together and were able to move all of the wedding preparation to the loft that all of the roommates shared. Their wedding ended up being in their very own loft.
Q10: Did Schmidt and Cece have children in the show?
Yes, Schmidt and Cece have a daughter named Ruth Bader Ginsburg Parikh Schmidt, named after the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The storyline involving Ruth’s birth and early childhood was a significant part of the later seasons of New Girl. In the series finale, it is hinted that they are expecting another child.
Q11: How did Schmidt and Cece’s relationship evolve after getting married?
After getting married, Schmidt and Cece’s relationship continued to evolve, showcasing the realities of married life while retaining their signature humor and charm. They faced challenges related to parenting, career aspirations, and navigating family dynamics, further solidifying their bond and commitment to each other. Their love continued to be a source of comfort and support for them throughout the later seasons.
Q12: What made Schmidt and Cece’s relationship so appealing to viewers?
Schmidt and Cece’s relationship resonated with viewers because it was relatable, authentic, and filled with genuine emotion. Their flaws, vulnerabilities, and unwavering love for each other made them a compelling couple to root for. The show’s ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments further enhanced their appeal, making them one of the most beloved couples on television. Their differences and unique personalities, blended together, makes for a very entertaining couple to watch.