Formal:
* Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren: (Literally: "Honored Ladies and Gentlemen") This is the most formal way to address a letter and is often used for business correspondence or when you don't know the recipients' names.
Informal:
* Liebe Familie [Last Name]: (Literally: "Dear Family [Last Name]") This is a more informal way to address a letter and is appropriate for friends and family or when you know the recipients well.
Important note:
* Avoid using "Herr und Frau [Last Name]" This is considered outdated and a little awkward in German.
Here are some examples:
Formal:
* Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,
* Sehr geehrte Familie Müller, (If you know the last name but not the specific individuals)
Informal:
* Liebe Familie Müller,
* Liebe Familie Schmidt,
Always use a comma after the salutation.