My knee jerk reaction is to not have 'em, because I was raised on a steady diet of Adams. But when I put my mind to it, I don't mind 'em if they don't distract, or are part of the point. I am incredibly slapdash with exposure these days, because digital lets me commit almost infinite wickedness without anyone knowing.
If it's any comfort, the other chap's pictures are ridiculous, twee, mawkish junk, AND he's got no control over his tone curve. He's blowing highlights left and right because he doesn't know any better. The bride's dress would look much better if he knew how to place tones.