The 17-55: one of my favorite Nikon lenses of all-time. One of the few lenses I paid near retail for. Of course, my results aren't near the original poster's image, but that not because of the lens. Despite its heft and size, I still lug it around as my preferred "travel" lens. I think its perfect for weddings. Its nice to have that extra width in tight rooms. I have confidence using it wide-open. That is something I can not say about my 85mm f1.4, 50mm f1.8, or 35mm f2.0.
Oh, one more thing. Compared to my Nikon 17-35mm, the 17-35 was slightly sharper at 17, but not as sharp at 35. I have since sold the 17-35, ultimately in favor for the 17-55.